US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
| Copper |
5800.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 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 | 12.5 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFNA | 6.2 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFPeA | 6.2 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHxA | 4.6 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHpA | 3.0 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in New Freedom, Pennsylvania (17349) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 53 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 11 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 64. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by New Freedom Boro Water Auth, a surface water system providing water to approximately 4,464 people. PFAS testing detected 5 compounds, all below the EPA final MCL values used for comparison. The area has 20 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 53/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for New Freedom, 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.
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 New Freedom, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 53/100. 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 17349 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 4,464 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
Lead levels in New Freedom, Pennsylvania are 0.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
5 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving New Freedom, 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 New Freedom, Pennsylvania have received 20 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 (PFAS, copper), residents in New Freedom, 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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