US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
18.8
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Towanda, Pennsylvania (18848) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 49 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 15 points below the Pennsylvania state average of 64. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 5,000 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 88 violations, including 2 health-based violations.
A score of 49/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for Towanda, PA. These may include violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS detections. Review the detailed records, your utility's Consumer Confidence Report, and qualified local guidance.
Health Information
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, kidney damage, and cardiovascular effects in adults. The EPA action level is 15 ppb, but health experts recommend no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead enters water primarily through corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass fixtures — especially in homes built before 1986.
If lead is detected above 1 ppb, consider using a certified lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53) for drinking and cooking water. Run cold water for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes.
Common Questions
Tap water in Towanda, Pennsylvania receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) 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 18848 is served by 4 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 5,000 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in the public-system record for Towanda, Pennsylvania are 18.8 ppb, above the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements lower that action level to 10 ppb when the new requirements take effect. This system-level result does not measure an individual tap; consider a certified lead-removal filter and independent tap testing.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Towanda, 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 Towanda, Pennsylvania have received 88 violations in the last 5 years, including 2 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 (lead), residents in Towanda, Pennsylvania should consider: NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter — specifically rated for lead reduction. Pitcher filters (like Brita Longlast or PUR) and under-sink systems both work. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.
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