Is South Whittier, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
South Whittier tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 1 of 1 ZIP code 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 South Whittier Get Its Water?
Water in South Whittier, CA is provided by 4 public water systems: ORCHARD DALE WATER DISTRICT, Suburban Water Systems - Whittier, SUBURBAN WATER SYSTEMS-LA MIRADA and GSWC - NORWALK.
How Is South Whittier Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine and calcium hypochlorite and chloramines and ozone. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), granular activated carbon filtration, groundwater disinfection, ion exchange, in-line filtration and post-ozone biofiltration.
What's in South Whittier Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in South Whittier public water systems. 1 of 1 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 58 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| HFPO-DA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for South Whittier
Based on EPA monitoring data, 1 of 1 ZIP codes in South Whittier 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 South Whittier Tap Water
Is South Whittier tap water safe to drink?
South Whittier tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 1 of 1 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 South Whittier tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in South Whittier water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, PFBA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does South Whittier get its drinking water?
South Whittier receives water from 4 public water systems, including ORCHARD DALE WATER DISTRICT.
Do I need a water filter in South Whittier?
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 South Whittier tap water tested?
Public water systems in South Whittier 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 2025-06-27.
Tap water reports by ZIP in South Whittier
- 90604 - South Whittier tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving South Whittier, 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.
- ORCHARD DALE WATER DISTRICTAction advised
- CENTRAL BASIN MWDNo recent federal sampling
Also covers / overlaps with
- East Whittier, CA · CDP
- Whittier, CA · Community
- Whittier CCD, CA · Township