The 10 Hidden Chemicals in Riverside’s Water — And How to Protect Your Home

The 10 Hidden Chemicals in Riverside’s Water — And How to Protect Your Home

Water Quality
May 25, 2025•2 min read

Introduction:

If you live in Riverside, California, you might be surprised to learn that your tap water contains 10 contaminants that exceed health guidelines set by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Even though Riverside's water supply is legally compliant with federal standards, that doesn't mean it's safe by today's health benchmarks..

What’s Really in Your Water?

Here are the 10 contaminants that have been detected in Riverside’s groundwater supply at levels above what EWG considers safe:

  1. Arsenic – Linked to skin damage, cancer, and other serious conditions.

  2. Chromium (Hexavalent) – Known from the "Erin Brockovich" case; carcinogenic even in small doses.

  3. Haloacetic Acids (HAA9) – Byproducts of disinfectants that may cause cancer.

  4. Nitrate – Often from fertilizer runoff; can affect oxygen levels in the blood.

  5. PFHXS – A type of PFAS ("forever chemical") linked to hormone disruption.

  6. PFOS – Another PFAS that accumulates in the body and may harm the immune system.

  7. PFOA – Yet another PFAS, strongly associated with cancer risks.

  8. Radium (-226 & -228) – A radioactive element tied to bone cancer.

  9. Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) – Chlorine byproducts linked to bladder cancer.

  10. Uranium – Naturally occurring, but dangerous at high concentrations.

Legal Doesn’t Mean Healthy

Federal water standards haven’t been significantly updated in nearly 20 years. The EWG's guidelines are based on the most current science and are far stricter than federal limits. That means even "legal" water may still pose health risks.

How to Protect Your Family

Fortunately, you have options. Advanced water filtration systems like reverse osmosis are highly effective at removing these harmful contaminants.

At Select Source Water, we specialize in custom whole-home and under-sink systems that address Riverside’s unique water quality issues. With our FREE in-home water test, you can see exactly what's in your water. And with our 5-Day Risk-Free Trial, you can test our systems in your own home with no commitment.

Take Action Today

You don’t have to guess about your water quality or wait for the city to improve it. Let Select Source Water help you take control.

>> Schedule your FREE in-home water test now
 >> Try our system with a 5-Day Risk-Free Trial

Your family deserves clean, safe water — and peace of mind..

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