Copper in Chapel Hill, NC Drinking Water
Copper data for Chapel Hill, North Carolina · 107,660 residents · 5 ZIP codes
People in Chapel Hill, North Carolina who get water from the public supply are among residents whose systems have returned Copper detections in EPA compliance testing.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05
Copper in Chapel Hill Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Chapel Hill, North Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 1595 ppb — 1.23x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 107,660 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Chapel Hill.
Chapel Hill's overall water quality grade is B (70/100).
Is Copper in Chapel Hill 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27514 | 1595 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 27515 | 1595 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 27516 | 1595 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 27517 | 1595 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 27599 | 1595 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
Average copper level across Chapel Hill: 1595 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 Chapel Hill 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.