Is Buckhorn, KY Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Buckhorn 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 Buckhorn Get Its Water?
Water in Buckhorn, KY is provided by 2 public water systems: BREATHITT CO WATER DISTRICT and HAZARD WATER DEPARTMENT.
How Is Buckhorn Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using chloramines. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration).
What's in Buckhorn Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Buckhorn public water systems. 1 of 1 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 20.3 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 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 |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Buckhorn
Based on EPA monitoring data, 1 of 1 ZIP codes in Buckhorn 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 Filters for PFAS Water Profile
PFAS compounds are detected in this water supply. A reverse osmosis (RO) system or an activated-carbon filter specifically certified under NSF/ANSI P473 is required for reliable PFAS reduction. Standard pitcher and faucet filters without P473 certification do not remove PFAS.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
NSF-certified dual-layer filtration reduces 70+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, chlorine, microplastics, and bacteria.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Buckhorn Tap Water
Is Buckhorn tap water safe to drink?
Buckhorn 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 Buckhorn tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Buckhorn water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, 11Cl-PF3OUdS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Buckhorn get its drinking water?
Buckhorn receives water from 2 public water systems, including BREATHITT CO WATER DISTRICT.
Do I need a water filter in Buckhorn?
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 Buckhorn tap water tested?
Public water systems in Buckhorn 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 2025-05-14.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Buckhorn
- 41721 - Buckhorn tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Buckhorn, KY
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- BREATHITT CO WATER DISTRICTAction advised
- HAZARD WATER DEPARTMENTLooks OK
Also covers / overlaps with
- Buckhorn CCD, KY · Township
- Canoe CCD, KY · Township
- Cowcreek CCD, KY · Township