As a result of the rapid development of China’s economy, many surface and groundwater have become polluted. Assuring high
quality drinking water, especially for the rural areas has recently received much attention. In this study, the drinking water quality
in one centralized water supply network was evaluated by analyzing 28 pollutant indices at 35 sampling points. It was determined
that the concentrations of most organoleptic and physical indices were stable in all the water samples. The large variation of
turbidity in the tap water was likely a result of the sloughing off of corrosion scales as well as bio-films formed within the
distribution system. Trace metal elements also showed high removal efficiencies as a result of purification and pipe scale
adsorption. The average concentrations of Fe and Mn in the tap water were 39.8 and 2.4 μg/L respectively, much lower than that
in the untreated groundwater. Compared with organoleptic/physical indices and trace metal elements, the removal ratios of nitrate
and microorganisms in purification were relatively low. Total bacteria counts could not meet the standard requirements in nearly
all the tap water samples tested. To ensure future tap water quality, enhanced management in addition to upgrading the treatment
process with a disinfection unit is suggested.