D
51

Poor Water Quality

Tamaqua, PA 18252

Schuylkill County · Population served: 8,000 · Data updated March 2026

Water Systems Serving This Area

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TAMAQUA AREA WATER AUTHORITY
Surface water · Pop. 8,000
PWSID: PA3540012

Violation History (Last 5 Years)

69Total (5yr)
18Health-Based
15Major

Water Quality Summary

Understanding Your Water in Tamaqua

Tap water quality in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania (18252) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 51 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 12 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 63. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Tamaqua Area Water Authority, a surface water system providing water to approximately 8,000 people. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 69 violations, including 18 health-based violations.

Your Score 51/100 D
vs State 12 pts below Pennsylvania avg (63)
vs National 24 pts below national avg (75)

What a Grade D Means

A score of 51/100 signals poor water quality in Tamaqua, 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.

Surface water: sourced from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Tap water in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 51/100. 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 18252 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 8,000 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.

No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 18252. 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 Tamaqua, 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 Tamaqua, Pennsylvania have received 69 violations in the last 5 years, including 18 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.

Water in Tamaqua, 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.

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