US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
43.27
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania (16828) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 42 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 22 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 64. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Centre Hall Boro Water Dept, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 1,900 people. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 14 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 42/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for Centre Hall, 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 Centre Hall, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 42/100. 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 16828 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 1,900 people. Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil, often requiring less treatment. However, it can be vulnerable to contamination from underground sources like naturally occurring arsenic, nitrates from agriculture, or PFAS from industrial sites.
Lead levels in the public-system record for Centre Hall, Pennsylvania are 43.27 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.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Centre Hall, 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 Centre Hall, Pennsylvania have received 14 violations in the last 5 years, including 1 health-based violation. 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 Centre Hall, 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.