Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper |
1480.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in East Berlin, Pennsylvania (17316) 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 2 water systems providing water to approximately 4,971 people, using groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Copper that warrant attention. The area has 63 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 67/100 indicates fair water quality in East Berlin, 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.
Health Information
Copper can leach into water from copper plumbing, especially in newer homes or when water is acidic.
Short-term exposure above 1,300 ppb can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure may cause liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially vulnerable.
Copper pipes, fittings, and faucets are the most common source. Corrosive (low-pH) water accelerates copper leaching.
If copper levels are elevated, flush pipes by running water for 15–30 seconds before use. Reverse osmosis and distillation systems effectively remove copper.
Common Questions
Tap water in East Berlin, 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 17316 is served by 2 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 4,971 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 17316. 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 East Berlin, 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 East Berlin, Pennsylvania have received 63 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 (copper), residents in East Berlin, Pennsylvania should consider: Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.