Tap water quality for ZIP 42086

2 community water systems linked to this ZIP, largest first.

What this means for you in ZIP 42086

Is it safe to drink right now?
Based on the latest EPA data, Paducah Water Works has no unresolved health-based violations from the past year. Water that meets federal standards is generally considered safe to drink for most healthy people.
Should I use a filter?
Yes, we recommend considering one. Average PFOS was above the 4 ppt federal limit (compliance deadline April 2029).
What kind of filter?
For PFAS, look for NSF/ANSI 53 (with an explicit PFOA/PFOS or total PFAS claim) or NSF/ANSI 58 reverse osmosis. See matched standards and product picks.

This is general information from public EPA data, not medical advice. Lead often comes from a home’s own pipes, so only a test of your tap can tell your exposure. If you are pregnant, caring for an infant, or have a weakened immune system, ask your doctor or health department.

Shown for the largest system linked to this ZIP. Check your water bill to confirm your provider.

Filters matched to Paducah Water Works

FILTER PICKS

Look for filters certified (NSF, IAPMO or WQA) to these standards for the specific contaminant. Buttons open the maker’s page or an Amazon search; use “Check NSF listing” to verify a model’s claims. No affiliate links yet — grades are never sold.

PFOA

NSF/ANSI 53 (PFOA/PFOS claim)NSF/ANSI 58 (RO)
Aquasana Claryum or OptimH2O (PFAS claim) ~$100–350
Aquasana under-sink lineup; must list PFOA/PFOS on the certificate — check before buying.
View on Aquasana →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure
Clearly Filtered Pitcher (PFAS claim) ~$110
Pitcher option with published PFAS reduction claims; verify NSF/IAPMO listing.
View on Clearly Filtered →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure
Waterdrop G3 / G3P600 RO ~$300–500
Tankless RO; RO broadly reduces nitrate, fluoride, arsenic and many PFAS — confirm the certificate lists yours.
Search on Amazon →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure

PFOS

NSF/ANSI 53 (PFOA/PFOS claim)NSF/ANSI 58 (RO)
Aquasana Claryum or OptimH2O (PFAS claim) ~$100–350
Aquasana under-sink lineup; must list PFOA/PFOS on the certificate — check before buying.
View on Aquasana →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure
Clearly Filtered Pitcher (PFAS claim) ~$110
Pitcher option with published PFAS reduction claims; verify NSF/IAPMO listing.
View on Clearly Filtered →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure
Waterdrop G3 / G3P600 RO ~$300–500
Tankless RO; RO broadly reduces nitrate, fluoride, arsenic and many PFAS — confirm the certificate lists yours.
Search on Amazon →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure

Chlorine/chloramine taste

NSF/ANSI 42
Aquasana Clean Water Pitcher ~$35
Pitcher for chlorine taste/odor; check the NSF/ANSI 42 listing for the exact model.
Search on Amazon →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure
Brita Elite Filter ~$20–40
Common faucet/pitcher option; confirm the 42 claim on the box.
View on Brita →
Check NSF listing · Not an affiliate link · disclosure

Annual water quality report

Utilities must publish a Consumer Confidence Report every year by July 1. Find it on the utility’s website or ask them directly; EPA explains how. · Full report →

Water systems for this ZIP

B

Paducah Water Works

Serves 65,004 people · Surface water · Full report →
No health-based violations in the last 5 years; PFOA/PFOS average above the 4 ppt federal limit: PFOS; Lead 90th percentile below the action level (2024).
A

Locust Valley Mobile Est

Serves 94 people · Groundwater · Full report →
No health-based violations in the last 5 years; No UCMR 5 PFAS results on file; Lead 90th percentile below the action level (2024).
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