Is El Monte, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
El Monte tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 2 of 2 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for lithium. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does El Monte Get Its Water?
Water in El Monte, CA is provided by 4 public water systems: EL MONTE-CITY, WATER DEPT., SAN GABRIEL VALLEY WATER CO.-EL MONTE, CAL/AM WATER COMPANY - SAN MARINO and GSWC-SOUTH ARCADIA.
How Is El Monte Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), direct filtration, granular activated carbon filtration and groundwater disinfection.
What's in El Monte Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in El Monte public water systems. 2 of 2 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 91.9 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.007 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| HFPO-DA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for El Monte
Based on EPA monitoring data, 2 of 2 ZIP codes in El Monte have recorded detections above EPA health guidelines. Sensitive populations such as infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may benefit from an additional layer of protection such as a certified point-of-use filter.
Best Broad-Spectrum Filters for This Water Profile
This city profile includes PFAS detections, chlorine disinfection, and other dissolved contaminants. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems certified under NSF/ANSI 58 provide broad reduction coverage; for PFAS specifically, confirm NSF/ANSI P473 or equivalent PFAS reduction certification.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Monte Tap Water
Is El Monte tap water safe to drink?
El Monte tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 2 of 2 ZIP codes show contaminant levels above EPA health-based guidelines. A certified point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in El Monte tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in El Monte water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, 11Cl-PF3OUdS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does El Monte get its drinking water?
El Monte receives water from 4 public water systems, including EL MONTE-CITY, WATER DEPT..
Do I need a water filter in El Monte?
If your ZIP code is among those with detections above EPA health guidelines, choose a filter certified for the specific contaminants shown in your ZIP report. Reverse osmosis is generally the broadest option for PFAS, lithium, and many other dissolved contaminants.
How often is El Monte tap water tested?
Public water systems in El Monte are required by the EPA to test for regulated contaminants on schedules ranging from daily (for microbials and disinfectants) to annual or triennial (for many chemical contaminants). Results are published in annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs). The data on this page reflects the most recent available EPA monitoring results, with the latest sample date of 2025-02-28.
Tap water reports by ZIP in El Monte
Water utilities serving El Monte, CA
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- EL MONTE-CITY, WATER DEPT.Action advised
- SAN GABRIEL VALLEY WATER CO.-EL MONTEAction advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- Upper San Gabriel Valley CCD, CA · Township