Poor Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOA | 42.5 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOS | 40.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFNA | 21.1 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFPeA | 11.8 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 11.4 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHpA | 10.6 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxS | 10.4 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 6.5 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Palmerton, Pennsylvania (18071) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 49 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 14 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 63. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Palmerton Municipal Authority, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 7,000 people. Notably, 4 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. The area has 141 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 49/100 signals poor water quality in Palmerton, PA. Significant issues have been identified, which may include multiple violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS contamination. We recommend reviewing the detailed contaminant data below, considering a certified water filter, and checking your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for the latest information.
Common Questions
Tap water in Palmerton, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 49/100. 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 18071 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 7,000 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 18071. 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.
Yes — 8 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Palmerton, Pennsylvania, and 4 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. PFAS are persistent chemicals linked to cancer, immune system effects, and developmental issues. A reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter certified for PFAS removal is recommended.
Water systems serving Palmerton, Pennsylvania have received 141 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), residents in Palmerton, 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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