Read the local water quality report
The GSWSA report lists regulated substances found during utility monitoring. It compares those results with the applicable limits.
The 2025 report lists a chloramine range of 2.45 to 3.01 parts per million.
Use the report to name a concern before comparing equipment. Do not treat every listed substance as a reason to buy a filter.
Separate utility results from household results
The report summarizes utility monitoring. It does not measure every faucet or identify every substance that could enter through household plumbing.
The EPA says a utility customer with a household concern can use a state-certified laboratory to test the water.
Share the report and any household test result with the provider. Include the sample location, date, result, and unit.
Set a treatment goal
The EPA recommends using report data, test results, or a specific water concern to define a treatment goal.
A concern at one drinking-water fixture may call for point-of-use treatment. A concern across the home may call for point-of-entry treatment.
Ask the provider why the proposed location and treatment method fit the stated goal.
Check the filter claim
The EPA advises buyers to choose treatment certified to the applicable standard for the targeted contaminant. Third-party certification helps verify the manufacturer’s claim.
Read the product data sheet for the named reduction claim, rated capacity, flow rate, and replacement schedule.
A certification for one substance does not establish reduction performance for every substance. Match the claim to the report or test result.
Prepare a water filtration request
Share the property address, water source, report, household test results, and treatment goal.
Include the fixtures involved, available installation space, current equipment, and expected water use. Review the water filtration guide for system types.
Water filtration questions
- What does the local water quality report show?
- The report lists regulated substances found in the utility water and compares results with applicable limits.
- Source: GSWSA 2025 water quality report
- Does the report tell me which filter to buy?
- No. The EPA recommends defining a treatment goal before selecting a home water treatment unit.
- Source: EPA home water treatment guide
- Does the report show the water quality at my faucet?
- Not completely. The report covers utility monitoring, while a certified laboratory can test a concern at the home.
- Source: EPA home water treatment guide
- How do I compare two filters?
- Compare each product's certified reduction claims with the substance and concentration that concern you.
- Source: EPA home water treatment guide