Is Gilford, NH Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Lead and Copper were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
31/100
waterverge.com Gilford, NH — Water Quality Report
Gilford's drinking water received a grade of F (31 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 26 water systems serve approximately 4,406 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 23.0 ppb (90th percentile), which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 1030 violations on record, including 122 health-based violations. 96 remain unresolved.
What to know about Gilford's water
Gilford ranks #109 out of 119 cities in New Hampshire for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Gilford 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.
Lead levels exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb, which typically indicates aging lead service lines or lead solder in the distribution system. An NSF 53-certified filter is strongly recommended for drinking and cooking water.
The system has seen 51 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Gilford, NH water safe to drink?
Gilford's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (31/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 26 water systems serve approximately 4,406 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Gilford
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Gilford's water quality assessment. Grade: F (31/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Combined Radium (-226 and -228).
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4740). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4095). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Gilford's water supply.
Exceeds EPA action level. Lead service line replacement and point-of-use filtration recommended.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Gilford's water system has 1,030 total violations on record, including 122 health-based violations. 96 remain unresolved. 51 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Belknap County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1973. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies.
Where does Gilford's water come from?
Gilford's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 26 water systems serving approximately 4,406 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate.
What Gilford residents can do
Recommended: NSF 53-certified pitcher or under-sink filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Gilford'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.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Gilford'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
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtBelknap 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
Belknap County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1973. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Gilford'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. | 23.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 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. | 3.82 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 3.820 mg/L (1993)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Gilford compares by contaminant
Explore where Gilford ranks among all New Hampshire cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Gilford's water comes from
Gilford'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 local government ownership and serves approximately 4,406 people through 26 water systems.
Water systems serving Gilford
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| GUNSTOCK ACRES VILLAGE DIST | NH0881020 | 1,440 | GW |
| SAMOSET AT WINNIPESAUKEE | NH0882160 | 343 | GW |
| LRMHV | NH0883040 | 233 | GW |
| ABENAKI WATER/GILFORD VILLAGE | NH0881010 | 190 | GW |
| DOCKHAM SHORES ESTATES | NH0882190 | 152 | GW |
| LAKE SHORE PARK | NH0882150 | 150 | GW |
| MOUNTAIN VIEW HOUSING | NH0883030 | 148 | GW |
| GUNSTOCK GLEN WATER | NH0882090 | 138 | GW |
| BROOKSIDE CROSSING | NH0882180 | 138 | GW |
| BROADVIEW CONDOS | NH0882130 | 128 | GW |
| OLD LAKE SHORE | NH0883010 | 128 | GW |
| WINNSTOCK CONDOS | NH0882060 | 125 | GW |
| EDGE OF WOODS | NH0883060 | 123 | GW |
| GILFORD FOREST ESTATES | NH0882020 | 113 | GW |
| MARINA BAY CONDOS I AND II | NH0882140 | 100 | GW |
| COUNTRY VILLAGE WAY | NH0882170 | 100 | GW |
| BRAKE HILL ACRES | NH0882050 | 98 | GW |
| STONEWALL VILLAGE | NH0882420 | 93 | GW |
| CHERRY VALLEY CONDOS | NH0882080 | 90 | GW |
| BRETON WOODS DEV | NH0882220 | 90 | GW |
| GILFORD MEADOWS | NH0882210 | 75 | GW |
| BELKNAP HEIGHTS WATER | NH0882100 | 60 | GW |
| LIBERTY HIGHLANDS WATER | NH0882040 | 50 | GW |
| HAMPSHIRE VILLAGE | NH0882410 | 40 | GW |
| CHALET VILLAGE | NH0882010 | 35 | GW |
| LILY POND MHP | NH0883070 | 26 | GW |
How Gilford compares
Full New Hampshire rankings →Gilford's score of 31/100 is below the average of 69/100 among major New Hampshire cities. 10 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View New Hampshire rankings →About Gilford, NH
Wikipedia →Gilford is a town in Belknap County, New Hampshire, United States. The population was 7,699 at the 2020 census, up from 7,126 at the 2010 census. Situated on Lake Winnipesaukee, Gilford is home to Governors Island, Ellacoya State Beach, Belknap Mountain State Forest, Gunstock Mountain Resort, and the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, a seasonal outdoor concert venue. The lakeside village of Glendale lies within Gilford's borders.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Gilford's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Belknap
Frequently asked questions
Is Gilford, NH tap water safe to drink?
Gilford's water quality earned a grade of F (31/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #109 out of 119 cities tested in New Hampshire.
What contaminants are in Gilford's water?
Lead was measured at 23.0 ppb (90th percentile). 1030 violations are on record.
How is Gilford'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 Gilford?
Yes — lead levels exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb. We recommend an NSF 53-certified filter or reverse osmosis system. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Gilford's water come from?
Gilford's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 26 water systems serving approximately 4,406 residents.
What health violations has Gilford's water system had?
Gilford has 122 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 96 violations remain unresolved.
Is Gilford's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Gilford 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 1030 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 Gilford's water compare to other cities?
Gilford ranks #109 out of 119 cities in New Hampshire (better than 8% of state cities) and #15659 out of 15744 cities nationally (1th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.