Exceeds EPA Limit Copper EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Copper in Orinda, CA Drinking Water

Copper data for Orinda, California · 19,409 residents · 1 ZIP code

Within Orinda, California, Copper has been detected in water samples drawn from the public supply — the results are part of the official EPA compliance record for systems here.

1700 ppb
Max Level Detected
1700 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 Orinda Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Orinda, California drinking water at a maximum level of 1700 ppb1.31x the EPA action level.

This analysis covers 19,409 residents across 1 ZIP code in Orinda.

Orinda's overall water quality grade is B (70/100).

Is Copper in Orinda Water Safe?

Copper levels in parts of Orinda 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
94563 1700 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit

Average copper level across Orinda: 1700 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 Orinda 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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