How much copper is in Bessemer water?

The maximum detected level of copper in Bessemer water is 1.3 ppb. The EPA limit is 1.3 mg/L (action level). See the ZIP code table above for area-specific levels.

Detected Copper

Copper in Bessemer, AL Drinking Water

Q: Is copper in Bessemer water safe?

Copper was detected in Bessemer water at 1.3 ppb, below the EPA limit of 1.3 mg/L (action level). Check ZIP-level data on this page for your specific area.

Copper data for Bessemer, Alabama · 74,518 residents · 4 ZIP codes

Water monitoring in Bessemer, Alabama has logged Copper at detectable levels in recent sampling cycles.

1.3 ppb

Max Level Detected

1.3 ppb

Average Level

1.3 mg/L (action level)

EPA action level

Moderate

Health Risk

Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block

Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05

Copper in Bessemer Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Bessemer, Alabama drinking water at a maximum level of 1.3 ppb — below the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level).

This analysis covers 74,518 residents across 4 ZIP codes in Bessemer.

Bessemer's overall water quality grade is B (74/100).

Is Copper in Bessemer Water Safe?

Copper was detected in Bessemer water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce copper levels further.

Copper Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code	Copper Level	EPA Limit	Status
35020	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK
35021	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK
35022	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK
35023	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK

Average copper level across Bessemer: 1.3 ppb

Health Effects of Copper

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (short-term, high levels)
Liver and kidney damage (long-term)
Particularly dangerous for people with Wilson's disease
Infants are more sensitive than adults

Health risk severity: Moderate. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule.

How Copper Gets Into Drinking Water

Corrosion of copper household plumbing
Acidic (low pH) water accelerates copper leaching
New copper pipes leach more than aged ones
Mining and industrial discharge (rare for tap water)

What to Do About Copper in Bessemer Water

Run water for 30-60 seconds before use (flushes stagnant water)
Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter
If pH is low, consider a whole-home acid neutralizer
Test first-draw morning water to check actual copper levels

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 for copper removal.

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