Fair Water Quality
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Howard, Pennsylvania (16841) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 67 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 63. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 1,431 people, using groundwater sources. The area has 67 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 67/100 indicates fair water quality in Howard, PA. While the water meets minimum federal standards, there are noteworthy concerns — either elevated contaminant levels approaching regulatory limits, a moderate violation history, or both. Residents may want to review specific contaminant data and consider targeted filtration, especially for sensitive groups like children and pregnant women.
Common Questions
Tap water in Howard, Pennsylvania receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 67/100. While it generally meets minimum federal standards, there are some areas of concern including violation history or elevated contaminant levels. Sensitive populations (children, pregnant women, elderly) may want to consider additional filtration.
ZIP code 16841 is served by 3 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 1,431 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.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 16841. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Howard, 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 Howard, 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.
Water in Howard, Pennsylvania shows no major contaminant concerns based on available data. A basic carbon filter can improve taste and reduce chlorine. For extra peace of mind, an NSF-certified pitcher filter or faucet-mount filter provides an affordable layer of protection.