Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper |
3820.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania (18624) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 56 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 7 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 63. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by S R Water, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 500 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Copper that warrant attention. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 57 violations, including 8 health-based violations.
A score of 56/100 indicates fair water quality in Lake Harmony, 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 Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 56/100. 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 18624 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 500 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 18624. 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 Lake Harmony, 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 Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania have received 57 violations in the last 5 years, including 8 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 Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania should consider: Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.