Copper in Lancaster, PA Drinking Water
Copper data for Lancaster, Pennsylvania · 120,720 residents · 12 ZIP codes
If you rely on a public water system in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Copper is a contaminant your utility has been required to test for — and EPA records show it has been detected at measurable levels, making it worth understanding as part of your tap water's detection record.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Copper in Lancaster Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Lancaster, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 2765 ppb — 2.13x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 120,720 residents across 12 ZIP codes in Lancaster.
Lancaster's overall water quality grade is C (57/100).
Is Copper in Lancaster 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17573 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17601 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17602 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17603 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17604 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17605 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17606 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17607 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17608 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17611 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17622 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 17699 | 2765 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
Average copper level across Lancaster: 2765 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 Lancaster 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.