Exceeds EPA Limit Copper EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Copper in Hanover, PA Drinking Water

Copper data for Hanover, Pennsylvania · 55,374 residents · 5 ZIP codes

People in Hanover, Pennsylvania who get water from the public supply are among residents whose systems have returned Copper detections in EPA compliance testing.

3 ppb
Max Level Detected
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 Hanover Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Hanover, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 3 ppb — below the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level).

This analysis covers 55,374 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Hanover.

Hanover's overall water quality grade is C (62/100).

Is Copper in Hanover Water Safe?

Copper levels in parts of Hanover exceed the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level). The EPA requires water systems to take corrective action when this limit is exceeded.

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
17331 3 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
17332 3 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
17333 3 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
17334 3 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
17335 3 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK

Average copper level across Hanover: 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 Hanover Water

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

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 for copper removal.

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