Copper in Santa Fe, NM Drinking Water
Copper data for Santa Fe, New Mexico · 109,754 residents · 11 ZIP codes
Over the past reporting period, water systems in Santa Fe, New Mexico have recorded Copper at detectable concentrations in EPA compliance samples.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Copper in Santa Fe Tap Water
Copper has been detected in Santa Fe, New Mexico drinking water at a maximum level of 1900 ppb — 1.46x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 109,754 residents across 11 ZIP codes in Santa Fe.
Santa Fe's overall water quality grade is D (48/100).
Is Copper in Santa Fe 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87501 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87502 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87503 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87504 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87505 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87506 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87507 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87508 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87509 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87592 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 87594 | 1900 ppb | 1.3 mg/L (action level) | Exceeds limit |
Average copper level across Santa Fe: 1900 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 Santa Fe 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.