Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
21.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (15224) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 47 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 16 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 63. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Pittsburgh Water & Sewer Auth, a surface water system providing water to approximately 520,000 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. The area has 67 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 47/100 signals poor water quality in Pittsburgh, PA. Significant issues have been identified, which may include multiple violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS contamination. We recommend reviewing the detailed contaminant data below, considering a certified water filter, and checking your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for the latest information.
Health Information
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, kidney damage, and cardiovascular effects in adults. The EPA action level is 15 ppb, but health experts recommend no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead enters water primarily through corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass fixtures — especially in homes built before 1986.
If lead is detected above 1 ppb, consider using a certified lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53) for drinking and cooking water. Run cold water for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes.
Common Questions
Tap water in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 47/100. This indicates significant water quality concerns based on violation history, contaminant levels, or enforcement actions. We recommend reviewing the specific contaminants detected below and considering a certified water filter.
ZIP code 15224 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 520,000 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
Yes — lead levels in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are 21.0 ppb, which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This is a serious concern. We strongly recommend using a certified lead-removal filter for all drinking and cooking water, and having your water independently tested.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania during the most recent EPA monitoring period (UCMR5). However, not all water systems have been tested for all PFAS compounds, and new contamination can occur over time.
Water systems serving Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania have received 67 violations in the last 5 years. Violations can range from paperwork issues (monitoring & reporting) to serious health-based violations where contaminant levels exceeded safe limits. Review the violation details above for specifics.
Based on detected contaminants (lead), residents in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania should consider: NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter — specifically rated for lead reduction. Pitcher filters (like Brita Longlast or PUR) and under-sink systems both work. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.
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