Lead in Wilkes Barre, PA Drinking Water
Lead data for Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania · 157,399 residents · 14 ZIP codes
At elevated levels, Lead is a recognized health concern in drinking water; in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, it has been detected in recent samples logged through federal compliance reporting.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Lead in Wilkes Barre Tap Water
Lead has been detected in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 2 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).
This analysis covers 157,399 residents across 14 ZIP codes in Wilkes Barre.
Wilkes Barre's overall water quality grade is C (65/100).
Is Lead in Wilkes Barre 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 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Lead Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Lead Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18703 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18710 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18711 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18762 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18764 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18765 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18766 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18767 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18769 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18773 | 2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18701 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18702 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18705 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 18706 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
Average lead level across Wilkes Barre: 1.71 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 Wilkes Barre Water
- Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
- Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
- Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
- Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.