Copper in Helena, MT Drinking Water
Copper data for Helena, Montana · 36,935 residents · 8 ZIP codes
Not every city shows Copper in its water data; in Helena, Montana, federal sampling has confirmed its presence at detectable levels in at least one recent reporting cycle.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Copper in Helena Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Helena, Montana drinking water at a maximum level of 1400 ppb — 1.08x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 36,935 residents across 8 ZIP codes in Helena.
Helena's overall water quality grade is F (39/100).
Is Copper in Helena 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59601 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59602 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59604 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59620 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59623 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59624 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59625 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 59626 | 1400 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
Average copper level across Helena: 1400 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 Helena 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.