How much copper is in Stafford water?

The maximum detected level of copper in Stafford water is 1.3 ppb. The EPA limit is 1.3 mg/L (action level). See the ZIP code table above for area-specific levels.

Detected Copper

Copper in Stafford, VA Drinking Water

Q: Is copper in Stafford water safe?

Copper was detected in Stafford water at 1.3 ppb, below the EPA limit of 1.3 mg/L (action level). Check ZIP-level data on this page for your specific area.

Copper data for Stafford, Virginia · 123,734 residents · 3 ZIP codes

Federal water monitoring extends to thousands of public water systems, and in Stafford, Virginia, that tracking has turned up Copper — the detection is logged in the EPA compliance record and reflects samples collected under routine Safe Drinking Water Act reporting requirements.

1.3 ppb

Max Level Detected

1.3 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 Stafford Tap Water

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

This analysis covers 123,734 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Stafford.

Stafford's overall water quality grade is A (91/100).

Is Copper in Stafford Water Safe?

Copper was detected in Stafford water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce copper levels further.

Copper Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code	Copper Level	EPA Limit	Status
22554	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK
22555	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK
22556	1.3 ppm	1.3 mg/L (action level)	OK

Average copper level across Stafford: 1.3 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 Stafford 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.

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