1
Hard water (13 gpg) can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances but is generally safe to drink.
2
PFAS data is limited for this utility. Consider testing or precautionary filtration.
3
Chlorine levels are within EPA limits but may affect taste and smell.

Current Score

73 / 100

Moderate

"Good" threshold (70)

Tempe tap water is sourced from Colorado River and treated by City of Tempe Water. Water hardness is very hard at 13.0 GPG which may cause scale buildup. TDS is 540 ppm which is above the EPA secondary guideline of 500 ppm. Overall purity score: 73/100 (Moderate). Updated for 2026.

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We've matched the best filters for Tempe's specific water issues.

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The Best Water Filter For Tempe Homes

Matched to local water issues and filtration standards.

Best for Tempe

iSpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House

Whole-House Carbon Filter

Price Range $230–270

Top Pick for Tempe

iSpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House

Tempe has very hard water (13.0 GPG) and elevated chlorine. A whole-house carbon plus softener system handles both.

Why this fits Tempe

Reduces hardness from 13.0 GPG to soft water
Whole-house chlorine and chloramine removal
Protects all appliances pipes and water heaters

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As an Amazon Associate, PurityMap may earn from qualifying purchases. Prices may vary.

Also Recommended

AFWFilters 5600sxt 48,000 Grain Softener

Salt-Based Water Softener — $650–750

Buy on Amazon

Want to know exactly what's in YOUR tap?

City reports show averages. Your home may be different — especially with older pipes.

Buy Test Kit on Amazon ($25–30)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tempe AZ tap water safe to drink in 2026?

Tempe tap water meets EPA federal drinking water standards and scores 73/100 (Moderate) on PurityMap for 2026. For most healthy adults the water is considered safe but point-of-use filtration adds an important layer of protection.

Does Tempe AZ use chlorine or chloramine for disinfection?

Tempe uses chloramine as the primary disinfectant with a residual level of 1.6 ppm. Chloramine is harder to remove than free chlorine and requires a catalytic carbon or reverse osmosis filter. Standard Brita-style pitchers will NOT remove chloramine.

How hard is Tempe AZ water and what is the TDS level?

Tempe water hardness is 13.0 grains per gallon (very hard) with a TDS of 540 ppm (unacceptable). This level causes noticeable scale buildup in water heaters kettles and dishwashers. A water softener is recommended to protect plumbing and reduce soap usage.

Has PFAS been found in Tempe AZ drinking water?

PFAS testing data for Tempe is incomplete or pending under EPA UCMR5 monitoring. Check your utility CCR report for the latest results. A certified filter provides precautionary protection.

Nearby Water Quality Reports

Phoenix Arizona — 73/100 Mesa Arizona — 73/100 Yuma Arizona — 73/100 Peoria Arizona — 73/100 Surprise Arizona — 73/100 Goodyear Arizona — 73/100

View all Arizona cities

Explore Water Quality by State

Compare water quality reports across all 50 US states

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Data Sources & Methodology

EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS)
EWG Tap Water Database
City of Tempe Water Consumer Confidence Report (CCR)
USGS regional water monitoring data

PurityMap compiles publicly available data and does not perform independent testing.

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