Exceeds EPA Limit Copper EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Copper in Smoketown, PA Drinking Water

Copper data for Smoketown, Pennsylvania · 120,000 residents · 1 ZIP code

People in Smoketown, Pennsylvania who get water from the public supply are among residents whose systems have returned Copper detections in EPA compliance testing.

0.283 ppb
Max Level Detected
0.28 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 Smoketown Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Smoketown, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 0.283 ppb — below the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level).

This analysis covers 120,000 residents across 1 ZIP code in Smoketown.

Smoketown's overall water quality grade is D (53/100).

Is Copper in Smoketown Water Safe?

Copper levels in parts of Smoketown 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
17576 0.283 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK

Average copper level across Smoketown: 0.28 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 Smoketown 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.

Related

HomeContaminantsCopperPennsylvania → Smoketown
Check your water filter options Free tool — no phone call required.