Exceeds EPA Limit Copper EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Copper in Quincy, IL Drinking Water

Copper data for Quincy, Illinois · 48,254 residents · 3 ZIP codes

If you rely on a public water system in Quincy, Illinois, 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.

1810 ppb
Max Level Detected
1810 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: 2026-05-14

Copper in Quincy Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Quincy, Illinois drinking water at a maximum level of 1810 ppb — 1.39x the EPA action level.

This analysis covers 48,254 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Quincy.

Quincy's overall water quality grade is C (58/100).

Is Copper in Quincy Water Safe?

Copper levels in parts of Quincy 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
62301 1810 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
62305 1810 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit
62306 1810 ppb 1.3 mg/L (action level) Exceeds limit

Average copper level across Quincy: 1810 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 Quincy 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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