US Water Score: C
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
115.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb |
UCMR5 occurrence results are screening information, not a finding of regulatory compliance or noncompliance. PFAS rules and compliance dates are evolving.
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 20.8 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFOA | 6.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFBS | 5.6 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFPeA | 5.4 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHxA | 4.4 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHpA | 3.0 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Reading, Pennsylvania (19610) receives an overall grade of C (Mixed record-based signals) with a score of 65 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Pennsylvania state average of 64. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 95,100 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 12 violations, including 3 health-based violations.
A score of 65/100 indicates fair performance in the US Water Score model for Reading, PA. The records show noteworthy concerns, such as elevated contaminant levels, violation history, or both. Review the detailed contaminant data and official utility reports before making decisions.
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
Reading, Pennsylvania receives an internal US Water Score grade of C (Fair) with a score of 65/100. Our model found some system-level concerns, such as violation history or elevated contaminant levels. Review your utility's Consumer Confidence Report and consult a qualified professional for household-specific health questions.
ZIP code 19610 is served by 4 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 95,100 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 Reading, Pennsylvania are 115.0 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.
Yes — 6 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving Reading, Pennsylvania, and 1 result exceeded the numerical EPA MCL value used for comparison. UCMR5 occurrence results alone are not a regulatory compliance determination. PFAS rules and compliance timelines are evolving; verify current information with the utility and EPA.
Water systems serving Reading, Pennsylvania have received 12 violations in the last 5 years, including 3 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, PFAS), residents in Reading, 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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