Exceeds EPA Limit Copper EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Copper in Springfield, MO Drinking Water

Copper data for Springfield, Missouri · 236,423 residents · 16 ZIP codes

Water quality records for Springfield, Missouri show Copper detections on file — a finding that places it among the contaminants worth tracking for this area.

10 ppb
Max Level Detected
10 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 Springfield Tap Water

Copper has been detected in Springfield, Missouri drinking water at a maximum level of 10 ppb — below the EPA action level of 1.3 mg/L (action level).

This analysis covers 236,423 residents across 16 ZIP codes in Springfield.

Springfield's overall water quality grade is B (72/100).

Is Copper in Springfield Water Safe?

Copper levels in parts of Springfield 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
65801 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65802 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65803 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65804 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65805 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65806 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65807 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65808 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65809 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65810 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65814 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65817 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65890 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65897 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65898 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK
65899 10 ppm 1.3 mg/L (action level) OK

Average copper level across Springfield: 10 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 Springfield 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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