Is Anchorage, Alaska Shower Water Safe? What's In Your Water (2026)
Khat Cruz
Is Anchorage, Alaska Shower Water Safe?
Population: 291,247 · Water Source: Eklutna Lake, Ship Creek, Groundwater
Anchorage, Alaska's pristine Eklutna Lake and Ship Creek sources provide refreshing drinking water, but what about your shower? Understanding the specific compounds in Anchorage's water is crucial for health-conscious residents concerned about skin, hair, and respiratory well-being in 2026.
💧 Where Does Anchorage's Water Come From?
Primary Source: Eklutna Lake, Ship Creek, Groundwater
Anchorage's water primarily comes from Eklutna Lake, a glacial-fed lake, and Ship Creek, supplemented by groundwater from the Eagle River and Chester Creek aquifers. This blend ensures a robust supply, treated to meet federal and state drinking water standards before distribution to the city.
Treatment: Chlorination, filtration, and pH adjustment
🔬 What's In Anchorage's Shower Water?
Here are the key contaminants detected in Anchorage's water supply based on real testing data from the EWG Tap Water Database:
| Contaminant | Level Found | EPA Limit | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS) | 0.0000 ppt | 1e-05 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (1004x above) |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 18.33 ppb | 60.0 ppb | 0.100 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (183x above) |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 9.94 ppb | No federal limit | 0.060 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (166x above) |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 17.46 ppb | 80.0 ppb | 0.150 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (116x above) |
| Trichloroacetic acid | 9.73 ppb | No federal limit | 0.100 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (97x above) |
| Nitrate and nitrite | 6.12 ppm | 10.0 ppm | 0.140 ppm | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (44x above) |
| Dichloroacetic acid | 8.31 ppb | No federal limit | 0.200 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (42x above) |
| Chloroform | 16.50 ppb | No federal limit | 0.400 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (41x above) |
| Chromium (hexavalent) | 0.585 ppb | No federal limit | 0.020 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (29x above) |
| Bromodichloromethane | 0.940 ppb | No federal limit | 0.060 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (16x above) |
Contaminant Details
Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS)
The health guideline of 0.001 ppt for perfluorohexane sulfonate was defined by EWG based on studies by Phillipe Grandjean of Harvard University and many other independent researchers who found reduced effectiveness of vaccines and adverse impacts on mammary gland development from exposure to PFOA and PFOS, the two PFAS most widely detected in drinking water. This health guideline harm to the developing immune system.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA5) was defined by as . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 11.61 ppb. National average: 19.82 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA9) was defined by EWG . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 8.54 ppb. National average: 23.70 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
The health guideline of 0.15 ppb for trihalomethanes was defined by in a peer-reviewed scientific study by EWG and represents a one-in-one-million lifetime cancer risk level. as a draft public health goal, the level of drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 17.58 ppb. National average: 29.06 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Trichloroacetic acid
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for trichloroacetic acid was defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as a one-in-a-million lifetime risk of cancer. Values greater than one-in-a-million cancer risk level can result in increased cancer cases above one in a million people.
Comparison: State average: 6.23 ppb. National average: 6.57 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Nitrate and nitrite
The health guideline of 0.14 ppm for nitrate and nitrite was defined by based on the equivalent health guideline for nitrate, as defined in a peer-reviewed scientific study by EWG. . This health guideline protects against one-in-one-million annual cancer risk level.
Comparison: State average: 0.414 ppm. National average: 0.780 ppm.
Shower Impact: While primarily a drinking water concern, nitrates can contribute to skin irritation during extended shower exposure.
Dichloroacetic acid
The health guideline of 0.2 ppb for dichloroacetic acid was defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as a one-in-a-million lifetime risk of cancer. Values greater than one-in-a-million cancer risk level can result in increased cancer cases above one in a million people.
Comparison: State average: 5.54 ppb. National average: 8.00 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Chloroform
The health guideline of 0.4 ppb for chloroform was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a one-in-a-million lifetime risk of cancer. Values greater than one-in-a-million cancer risk level can result in increased cancer cases above one in a million people.
Comparison: State average: 15.10 ppb. National average: 16.20 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Chromium (hexavalent)
The health guideline of 0.02 ppb for chromium (hexavalent) was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 0.412 ppb. National average: 0.440 ppb.
Shower Impact: Hexavalent chromium can be absorbed through the skin during bathing, adding to overall exposure beyond drinking water.
Bromodichloromethane
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for bromodichloromethane was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a one-in-a-million lifetime risk of cancer. Values greater than one-in-a-million cancer risk level can result in increased cancer cases above one in a million people.
Comparison: State average: 1.75 ppb. National average: 5.89 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
🧴 How Anchorage's Water Affects Your Skin, Hair & Health
When you shower, contaminants in the water don't just wash off — they're absorbed through your skin and inhaled as steam. Here's how Anchorage's water quality may be affecting you:
🧖 Skin Effects
- Dryness and irritation, especially for sensitive skin
- Eczema flare-ups due to chlorine and mineral residue
- Dull, itchy skin with a tight feeling
- Soap scum residue contributing to clogged pores and breakouts
💇 Hair Effects
- Dry, brittle, and damaged hair strands
- Accelerated color fade for dyed hair
- Lack of lather from shampoos and conditioners
- Residue buildup leading to dullness, frizz, and limp hair
🫁 Respiratory Effects
- Inhalation of chlorine and disinfection byproducts (TTHMs, HAA5) in steam
- Aggravation of asthma or allergies due to chemical exposure
- Irritation of nasal passages, throat, and lungs
- Potential long-term respiratory concerns from repeated exposure
✅ What You Can Do About It
Test Your Home's Water
A professional water test provides specific data on contaminants present in your home's unique plumbing, offering a clear picture beyond city averages.
Install a Quality Shower Filter
Shower filters are designed to reduce chlorine, chloramine, and other volatile contaminants, protecting your skin, hair, and respiratory system from their effects.
Limit Shower Time and Temperature
Shorter, cooler showers can reduce exposure to volatile chemicals like TTHMs and HAA5, and prevent excessive stripping of natural skin oils.
Moisturize Immediately After Showering
Applying a good moisturizer to damp skin helps lock in hydration and counteract the drying effects of treated water, especially for eczema sufferers.
Maintain Your Plumbing
Regularly flush stagnant water from seldom-used faucets and consider replacing old lead pipes or fixtures to reduce potential lead exposure in your home.
Protect Your Skin & Hair From Anchorage's Water
The easiest way to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants from your shower water.
Shop Afina Filtered Showerheads →🛒 Recommended Products for Anchorage Residents
Afina Filtered Showerhead
15-stage filtered showerhead that removes chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants while providing great water pressure.
✨ All-in-one solution — filters water and gives you a premium shower experience
Shop Now →Afina Shower Filter
Universal shower filter that attaches to any existing showerhead. Removes chlorine, chloramine, and sediment.
✨ Keep your current showerhead and add powerful filtration
Shop Now →Afina Replacement Filter
Replacement filter cartridge for Afina shower filters. Lasts up to 6 months or 10,000 gallons.
✨ Easy replacement every 2-3 months to maintain peak filtration
Shop Now →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Related Reading
Is Anchorage tap water safe to shower in?
Anchorage's tap water meets federal safety standards for drinking, making it generally safe for showering. However, common disinfectants like chlorine and their byproducts, along with minerals, can still negatively impact sensitive skin, hair, and respiratory health for some individuals.
Why does my skin feel dry and itchy after showering in Anchorage?
Chlorine, used to disinfect Anchorage's water, can strip natural oils from your skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, mineral residues, though Anchorage's water is relatively soft, can contribute to this feeling, especially for those with sensitive skin or eczema.
Will a shower filter really make a difference for my hair and skin in Anchorage?
Yes, a quality shower filter can significantly improve your shower experience by reducing chlorine and other volatile contaminants. This helps preserve your skin's natural moisture barrier, keeps hair healthier and shinier, and minimizes irritation and dryness.
Is Anchorage's water considered 'hard'?
Anchorage's water, primarily sourced from Eklutna Lake and Ship Creek, is generally considered moderately soft to slightly hard, with typical hardness levels around 40-70 mg/L. While not extremely hard, these minerals can still contribute to soap scum and dryness for some.
What are disinfection byproducts and why should I care about them in my shower?
Disinfection byproducts (DBPs) like TTHMs and HAA5 form when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the water. In the shower, hot water causes these chemicals to volatilize, allowing them to be inhaled through steam and absorbed through the skin, raising potential long-term health concerns.
