US Water Score: C
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
5.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 13.2 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Johnstown, Pennsylvania (15904) receives an overall grade of C (Mixed record-based signals) with a score of 60 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Pennsylvania state average of 64. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 5 water systems providing water to approximately 49,500 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 1 compound, all below the EPA final MCL values used for comparison. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 166 violations, including 3 health-based violations.
A score of 60/100 indicates fair performance in the US Water Score model for Johnstown, PA. The records show noteworthy concerns, such as elevated contaminant levels, violation history, or both. Review the detailed contaminant data and official utility reports before making decisions.
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
Johnstown, Pennsylvania receives an internal US Water Score grade of C (Fair) with a score of 60/100. Our model found some system-level concerns, such as violation history or elevated contaminant levels. Review your utility's Consumer Confidence Report and consult a qualified professional for household-specific health questions.
ZIP code 15904 is served by 5 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 49,500 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was reported at 5.0 ppb in public-system records for Johnstown, Pennsylvania. This is below the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb, but may be above more protective health guidance; EPA's future LCRI action level is 10 ppb. Household plumbing can materially change tap-level exposure, so consider certified filtration and individual tap testing, especially where children are present.
1 PFAS compound were detected in water serving Johnstown, Pennsylvania, with reported values below the EPA final MCL values used by this site. This comparison is informational: federal compliance timelines and the status of some PFAS standards are still evolving. Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can reduce some PFAS when appropriately certified and maintained.
Water systems serving Johnstown, Pennsylvania have received 166 violations in the last 5 years, including 3 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 Johnstown, 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.
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