How much nitrate is in Ephrata water?

The maximum detected level of nitrate in Ephrata water is 6.39 ppb. The EPA limit is 10 mg/L (as nitrogen). See the ZIP code table above for area-specific levels.

Detected Nitrate

Nitrate in Ephrata, PA Drinking Water

Q: Is nitrate in Ephrata water safe?

Nitrate was detected in Ephrata water at 6.39 ppb, below the EPA limit of 10 mg/L (as nitrogen). Check ZIP-level data on this page for your specific area.

Nitrate data for Ephrata, Pennsylvania · 25,028 residents · 1 ZIP code

Because Nitrate is associated with health effects at sustained elevated exposures, residents in Ephrata, Pennsylvania may find it useful that local water systems have returned detectable concentrations — facts that bear on long-term household water decisions.

6.39 ppb

Max Level Detected

6.39 ppb

Average Level

10 mg/L (as nitrogen)

EPA MCL

High

Health Risk

Reverse Osmosis or Ion Exchange

Best Filter Method

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

Nitrate in Ephrata Tap Water

Nitrate has been detected in Ephrata, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 6.39 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 10 mg/L (as nitrogen).

This analysis covers 25,028 residents across 1 ZIP code in Ephrata.

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

Is Nitrate in Ephrata Water Safe?

Nitrate was detected in Ephrata water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce nitrate levels further.

Nitrate Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code	Nitrate Level	EPA Limit	Status
17522	6.39 ppm	10 mg/L (as nitrogen)	OK

Average nitrate level across Ephrata: 6.39 ppb

Health Effects of Nitrate

Methemoglobinemia ("blue baby syndrome") in infants under 6 months
Increased risk of colorectal and bladder cancer (long-term)
Thyroid disease from chronic exposure
Possible reproductive effects

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

How Nitrate Gets Into Drinking Water

Agricultural fertilizer runoff
Animal feedlot operations and manure
Septic system leachate
Urban stormwater and wastewater discharge

What to Do About Nitrate in Ephrata Water

Reverse osmosis is the most effective method for nitrate removal
Ion exchange systems designed for nitrate can also work
Standard carbon filters do NOT remove nitrate
Boiling water increases nitrate concentration — never boil for nitrate

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

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