US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
17.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb |
UCMR5 occurrence results are screening information, not a finding of regulatory compliance or noncompliance. PFAS rules and compliance dates are evolving.
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBS | 15.0 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFBA | 6.0 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHxS | 5.5 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFOS | 4.5 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFOA | 4.3 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFPeA | 3.9 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHxA | 3.3 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Blairsville, Pennsylvania (15717) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 48 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 64. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 16,000 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 106 violations, including 2 health-based violations.
A score of 48/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for Blairsville, PA. These may include violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS detections. Review the detailed records, your utility's Consumer Confidence Report, and qualified local guidance.
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 Blairsville, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 48/100. 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 15717 is served by 4 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 16,000 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in the public-system record for Blairsville, Pennsylvania are 17.0 ppb, above the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements lower that action level to 10 ppb when the new requirements take effect. This system-level result does not measure an individual tap; consider a certified lead-removal filter and independent tap testing.
Yes — 7 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving Blairsville, Pennsylvania, and 2 results exceeded the numerical EPA MCL value used for comparison. UCMR5 occurrence results alone are not a regulatory compliance determination. PFAS rules and compliance timelines are evolving; verify current information with the utility and EPA.
Water systems serving Blairsville, Pennsylvania have received 106 violations in the last 5 years, including 2 health-based violations. 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, PFAS), residents in Blairsville, Pennsylvania should consider: Reverse osmosis (RO) system — most effective for PFAS, lead, and other contaminants. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.