Is Washington, CT Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
41/100
waterverge.com Washington, CT — Water Quality Report
Washington's drinking water received a grade of F (41 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 8 water systems serve approximately 1,370 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 3.7 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 335 violations on record, including 31 health-based violations. 89 remain unresolved.
What to know about Washington's water
Washington ranks #134 out of 158 cities in Connecticut for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Washington 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, Washington may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 67 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Washington, CT water safe to drink?
Washington's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (41/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 8 water systems serve approximately 1,370 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Washington
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Washington's water quality assessment. Grade: F (41/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Carbofuran, Atrazine, Heptachlor epoxide.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Washington'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
Washington's water system has 335 total violations on record, including 31 health-based violations. 89 remain unresolved. 67 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Washington's water come from?
Washington's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 8 water systems serving approximately 1,370 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Housatonic River (river), Shepaug River (river), Shepaug R Nr Roxbury (river), Nonewaug River (river), Weekeepeemee River (river).
What Washington residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Washington'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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Washington'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. | 3.7 | 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. | 1.50 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Washington compares by contaminant
Explore where Washington ranks among all Connecticut cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Washington's water comes from
Washington'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 1,370 people through 8 water systems.
Water bodies near Washington
Washington is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Washington
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| RUMSEY HALL SCHOOL | CT1501111 | 398 | GW |
| THE FREDERICK GUNN SCHOOL, INC. | CT1500051 | 300 | GW |
| AQUARION-JUDEA MAIN | CT1500021 | 219 | GW |
| NEW PRESTON WATER CO | CT1500011 | 139 | GW |
| BEE BROOK CROSSING CONDOMINIUMS | CT1500031 | 120 | GW |
| AQUARION-QUARRY RIDGE | CT1500341 | 84 | GW |
| AQUARION-JUDEA DEPOT | CT1500091 | 68 | GW |
| DODGE FARM | CT1500321 | 42 | GW |
How Washington compares
Full Connecticut rankings →Washington's score of 41/100 is below the average of 47/100 among major Connecticut cities. It outscores 3 of 10 nearby cities. 6 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Connecticut rankings →About Washington, CT
Wikipedia →Washington is a rural town in Litchfield County, Connecticut, in the North Eastern region of the United States. The population was 3,646 at the 2020 census. Washington is known for its picturesque countryside, historic architecture, and active civic and cultural life. The town has strong ties to New York City, and is home to many cultural and business elites. The town is part of the Northwest Hills Planning Region.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Washington's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Litchfield
Frequently asked questions
Is Washington, CT tap water safe to drink?
Washington's water quality earned a grade of F (41/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #134 out of 158 cities tested in Connecticut.
What contaminants are in Washington's water?
Lead was measured at 3.7 ppb (90th percentile). 335 violations are on record.
How is Washington'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 Washington?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Washington's water come from?
Washington's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 8 water systems serving approximately 1,370 residents.
What health violations has Washington's water system had?
Washington has 31 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in August 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 89 violations remain unresolved.
Is Washington's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Washington 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 335 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 Washington's water compare to other cities?
Washington ranks #134 out of 158 cities in Connecticut (better than 15% of state cities) and #15076 out of 15744 cities nationally (4th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.