San Rafael Tap Water Quality Report
San Rafael's water has 2 contaminants above EPA MCLGs. Consider using a certified water filter for additional protection.
Utility
MARIN MUNICIPAL WATER
People Served
193,937
MCL Violations
0
Last Updated
2025-10-06
Is San Rafael Tap Water Safe to Drink?
San Rafael's water has 2 contaminants above EPA health-based guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal legal limits, we recommend using a certified water filter for additional protection, especially for vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.
The data below shows test results from MARIN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT, which serves 193,937 people in the San Rafael area. Water quality testing is conducted regularly and reported to the EPA. This report was last updated 2025-10-06.
San Rafael Water Quality Test Results
Key Water Quality Metrics
Contaminants Detected
⚠️ Contaminants Above EPA MCLG (2)
Bromodichloromethane
What is Bromodichloromethane?
Member of trihalomethanes (THMs) that form in water treated with chlorine
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for BDCM are based on carcinogenicity and liver toxicity observed in animal studies. The EPA has classified BDCM as a probable human carcinogen. Results from animal studies also suggest that kidney, immune system, spleen, and developmental toxicity are associated with exposure to BDCM. BDCM has been shown to produce DNA changes (genotoxicity) in laboratory studies.
Affected Organs
Common Sources
Radon
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. Radon may be used in detecting seismic activity, radiography, radiation therapy, and calibrating radon monitoring devices. Radon and its breakdown products emit alpha, beta, and gamma particles that may be harmful to health. In fact, radon is the most significant source of human exposure to radiation. It is readily volatile, thus all routes of exposure (ingestion, inhalation and dermal) are relevant if one is exposed via drinking water. Elevated levels of radon in drinking water may lead to an increased risk of lung cancer due to the potential of radon gas formation. States have widely varying acceptable radon levels (300-10,000 pCi/L), but generally treatment is recommended at levels greater than 10,000 pCi/L.
Health Effects
Radon and its breakdown products release high energy particles called alpha, beta, and gamma rays responsible for its health effects. Radon has been associated with genotoxicity and an increased risk of lung cancer based on evidence from epidemiological, occupational, and animal studies.
Affected Organs
Common Sources
Understanding the Data
This data comes from your local water utility testing. The bar charts compare detected levels against EPA's Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG). Contaminants above the MCLG are shown by default and may require filtration. All other tested contaminants are within safe levels and can be viewed by expanding the section above.
Recommended Water Filters for San Rafael
Based on San Rafael's water quality data, these NSF-certified filters are recommended to remove contaminants above EPA MCLGs.
Whirlpool Corporation
W11256135
NSF Certified:
Capacity
1001 gal
Filter Life
3 mo
Flow Rate
0.7 gpm
Removes 19 contaminants:
1,2 Dichlorobenzene, 1,4 Dichlorobenzene, 2,4-D, Asbestos, Atrazine +14 more
Whirlpool Corporation
W11569861
NSF Certified:
Capacity
1001 gal
Filter Life
3 mo
Flow Rate
0.52 gpm
Removes 22 contaminants:
1,2 Dichlorobenzene, 1,2,4 Trichlorobenzene, 1,4 Dichlorobenzene, 2,4-D, Asbestos +17 more
iSpring Water Systems LLC
RCC7
NSF Certified:
Daily Production
21.04 gpd
Removes 1 contaminants:
Total Dissolved Solids
iSpring Water Systems LLC
RCC7-BLK
NSF Certified:
Daily Production
25.41 gpd
Removes 9 contaminants:
Asbestos, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium (Total), Copper +4 more
Test Your Water Quality
Professional laboratory testing provides accurate, detailed analysis of your drinking water.
SimpleLab
Standard Home Water Test
$232
Comprehensive water analysis testing over 200 contaminants including bacteria, heavy metals, and chemical compounds.
SimpleLab
Advanced Home Water Test
$369
Most comprehensive home water test including all standard tests plus additional parameters for ultimate peace of mind.
Tap Score
Advanced Microplastics Test
$636
Cutting-edge testing for microplastics particles in drinking water using advanced laboratory techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Rafael Tap Water
San Rafael's water has 2 contaminants above EPA MCLGs. While the water meets federal legal limits, we recommend using a certified water filter for additional protection, especially for vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.