Exceeds EPA Limit Lead EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Lead in Harrisburg, PA Drinking Water

Lead data for Harrisburg, Pennsylvania · 236,925 residents · 26 ZIP codes

Routine testing in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania turned up Lead — samples from the public supply came back positive, placing this contaminant on the list of substances residents here have a concrete reason to look into.

2.3 ppb
Max Level Detected
2.27 ppb
Average Level
15 ppb (action level)
EPA action level
High
Health Risk
Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block
Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Lead in Harrisburg Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 2.3 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).

This analysis covers 236,925 residents across 26 ZIP codes in Harrisburg.

Harrisburg's overall water quality grade is C (55/100).

Is Lead in Harrisburg Water Safe?

Lead levels in parts of Harrisburg exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb (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 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code Lead Level EPA Limit Status
17104 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17105 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17106 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17107 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17108 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17109 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17110 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17111 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17112 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17113 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17121 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17122 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17123 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17124 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17125 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17126 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17127 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17128 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17129 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17130 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17140 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17177 2.3 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17101 2.1 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17102 2.1 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
17103 2.1 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
...1 more ZIP codes

Average lead level across Harrisburg: 2.27 ppb

Health Effects of Lead

  • Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
  • Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
  • High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
  • Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).

How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water

  • Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
  • Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
  • Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
  • Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight

What to Do About Lead in Harrisburg Water

  1. Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
  2. Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
  3. Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
  4. Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

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