Copper in Burlington, VT Drinking Water
Copper data for Burlington, Vermont · 44,715 residents · 5 ZIP codes
For residents of Burlington, Vermont, Copper has appeared in public water supply sampling data.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05
Copper in Burlington Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Burlington, Vermont drinking water at a maximum level of 6 ppb — below the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level).
This analysis covers 44,715 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Burlington.
Burlington's overall water quality grade is A (92/100).
Is Copper in Burlington Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter certified under NSF 53 and testing your water independently.
Copper Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Copper Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 05401 | 6 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | OK |
| 05402 | 6 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | OK |
| 05405 | 6 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | OK |
| 05406 | 6 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | OK |
| 05408 | 6 ppm | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | OK |
Average copper level across Burlington: 6 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 Burlington 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.