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Manchester, NH · 123,525 people served · EPA data 2021–2026

Tap water quality in Manchester, New Hampshire

Manchester's water systems logged 3 health-based EPA violations in 2021–2026, most recently in 2025 — a modest record, with revised total coliform rule the issue found. For context, New Hampshire's systems average 1.5 health-based violations each.

B-Good
Manchester water grade: B-
Good — our A–F grade from this city's EPA compliance record, relative to New Hampshire and the nation. How we grade →
Health-based violations, 2021–20263
Revised Total Coliform Rule3
Manchester Water Works123,500 served
Rockwood Terrace Condos25 served
New Hampshire quality rank#3 / 51 (99.5/100)
New Hampshire avg hardness60 PPM (soft)
Want to know what's actually in your Manchester water?

Averages describe states, not your faucet. A certified home water test screens for lead, nitrates, bacteria and dozens of other contaminants — the same categories EPA regulates.

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Manchester tap water FAQ

Is tap water safe to drink in Manchester?

Manchester's systems logged 3 health-based violations in 2021–2026, most commonly revised total coliform rule. A violation is a red flag for a period of time, not a permanent condition — your utility's current Consumer Confidence Report shows today's status, and a certified home test shows what's at your tap.

Who supplies Manchester's water?

Manchester Water Works (serving about 123,500 people); Rockwood Terrace Condos (serving about 25 people). Data: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System, July 2026.

How hard is the water in Manchester?

City-level hardness isn't published in a single federal dataset, but New Hampshire averages 60 PPM — "soft" on the USGS scale. Your utility's water quality report lists Manchester's exact hardness, or a $10 test strip tells you in a minute. If it comes back over 120 PPM, see our water softener guidance in the purification calculator.

Do I need a water filter in Manchester?

With 3 health-based violations on record in 2021–2026, a certified filter is reasonable insurance here: reverse osmosis ($150–$1,300 installed, Angi 2026) covers lead, nitrates and PFAS at the tap. Test first ($50–$200) so you buy for what's actually present.

Want to know what's actually in your Manchester water?

Averages describe states, not your faucet. A certified home water test screens for lead, nitrates, bacteria and dozens of other contaminants — the same categories EPA regulates.

Test your water at home

We may earn a commission if you request quotes through this link. It costs you nothing and never affects the data we publish.