Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper |
4080.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Drums, Pennsylvania (18222) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 54 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 9 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 63. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 5 water systems providing water to approximately 924 people, using groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Copper that warrant attention. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 202 violations, including 6 health-based violations.
A score of 54/100 signals poor water quality in Drums, 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.
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 Drums, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 54/100. 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 18222 is served by 5 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 924 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 18222. 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 Drums, 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 Drums, Pennsylvania have received 202 violations in the last 5 years, including 6 health-based violations. 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 Drums, Pennsylvania should consider: Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.