Copper in Great Falls, MT Drinking Water
Copper data for Great Falls, Montana · 72,250 residents · 5 ZIP codes
Copper is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act because of its potential health effects at elevated concentrations; for residents of Great Falls, Montana, the relevant fact is that it has shown up in recent EPA compliance samples — point-of-use filtration is one option residents research, alongside reviewing the utility's published treatment data.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Copper in Great Falls Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Great Falls, Montana drinking water at a maximum level of 2210 ppb — 1.7x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 72,250 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Great Falls.
Great Falls's overall water quality grade is C (56/100).
Is Copper in Great Falls 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59401 | 2210 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59403 | 2210 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59404 | 2210 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59405 | 2210 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59406 | 2210 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
Average copper level across Great Falls: 2210 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 Great Falls 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.