Is Ellendale, DE Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded A- — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
85.4/100
waterverge.com Ellendale, DE — Water Quality Report
Ellendale's drinking water received a grade of A- (85.4 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 1,379 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 27 violations on record, including 19 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved.
What to know about Ellendale's water
Ellendale ranks #12 out of 43 cities in Delaware for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Ellendale relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
As a small community water system, Ellendale may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Ellendale, DE water safe to drink?
Ellendale's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of A- (85.4/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 1,379 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Ellendale
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Ellendale's water quality assessment. Grade: A- (85.4/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4627). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4566). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Ellendale's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Ellendale's water system has 27 total violations on record, including 19 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved. 2 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
New Castle County has experienced 9 federally declared disasters since 1999. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Christina River, East Branch White Clay Creek At Avondale, Trout Run At Avondale, Middle Branch White Clay Creek Near West Grove,Pa, West Branch White Clay Creek Near Chesterville.
Where does Ellendale's water come from?
Ellendale's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 5 water systems serving approximately 1,379 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Christina River (river), East Branch White Clay Creek At Avondale (river), Trout Run At Avondale (river), Middle Branch White Clay Creek Near West Grove,Pa (river), West Branch White Clay Creek Near Chesterville (river).
What Ellendale residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Ellendale's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Ellendale's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Ellendale
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Ellendale, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 561,613 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
PERDUE FOODS LLC - GEORGETOWN PROCESSING PLANT GEORGETOWN, DE19947 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 561,613 | 7.7 mi |
JUSTIN TANKS LLC GEORGETOWN, DE19947 | — | — | 8.9 mi |
ALLEN HARIM FOODS LLC - HARBESON HARBESON, DE19951 | — | — | 9.7 mi |
DENTSPLY SIRONA - MILFORD SITE MILFORD, DE19963 | — | — | 7.6 mi |
PERDUE FOODS LLC - MILFORD PROCESSING PLANT MILFORD, DE19963 | — | — | 7.7 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Ellendale
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- GEORGETOWN NORTH GROUNDWATER8.4 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtSussex County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
New Castle County has experienced 9 federally declared disasters since 1999. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Ellendale's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 1.75 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.754 mg/L (2006)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Ellendale compares by contaminant
Explore where Ellendale ranks among all Delaware cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Ellendale's water comes from
Ellendale's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by private ownership and serves approximately 1,379 people through 5 water systems.
Water bodies near Ellendale
Ellendale is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Ellendale
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| INGRAM VILLAGE (AWC) | DE0020052 | 498 | GW |
| GREATER ELLENDALE WATER DISTRICT | DE0020112 | 350 | GWP |
| NEW MARKET VILLAGE | DE0000269 | 321 | GW |
| SHADY OAK TRAILER COURT | DE0000272 | 108 | GW |
| CAPTAIN'S WAY | DE0020111 | 102 | GW |
How Ellendale compares
Full Delaware rankings →Ellendale's score of 85.4/100 is above the average of 74/100 among major Delaware cities. It outscores 10 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Delaware rankings →About Ellendale, DE
Wikipedia →Newark is a city in New Castle County, Delaware, United States. Home to the University of Delaware, it is located 8 miles (13 km) west-southwest of Wilmington and 28 miles (45 km) southwest of Philadelphia. According to the 2020 census, the town's population is 30,601. It constitutes part of the Delaware Valley, and the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Ellendale's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Sussex
Frequently asked questions
Is Ellendale, DE tap water safe to drink?
Ellendale's water quality earned a grade of A- (85.4/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #12 out of 43 cities tested in Delaware.
What contaminants are in Ellendale's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 27 violations are on record.
How is Ellendale's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Ellendale?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Ellendale's water come from?
Ellendale's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 5 water systems serving approximately 1,379 residents.
What health violations has Ellendale's water system had?
Ellendale has 19 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 4 violations remain unresolved.
Is Ellendale's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Ellendale uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 27 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Ellendale's water compare to other cities?
Ellendale ranks #12 out of 43 cities in Delaware (better than 72% of state cities) and #5355 out of 15744 cities nationally (66th percentile). The grade of A- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.