Failing Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 6.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFPeA | 5.5 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFOA | 4.8 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxA | 4.4 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania (18657) receives an overall grade of F (Failing) with a score of 34 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 29 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 63. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 8 water systems providing water to approximately 6,458 people, using groundwater sources. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 1460 violations, including 27 health-based violations.
A score of 34/100 indicates serious water quality failures in Tunkhannock, PA. The water system has significant violations, contaminant exceedances, or enforcement actions. Residents should strongly consider using a certified water filtration system for drinking and cooking water, requesting their utility's latest test results, and potentially having their water independently tested.
Common Questions
Tap water in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania receives a grade of F (Failing) with a score of 34/100. 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 18657 is served by 8 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 6,458 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 18657. 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 — 4 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, and 2 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 Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania have received 1460 violations in the last 5 years, including 27 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 (PFAS), residents in Tunkhannock, 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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