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WaterSafeCheck

Erie, PA Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 28 ZIP codes in Erie, Pennsylvania

Average Score

80/100

Health Violations

28

ZIP Codes

28

High Lead Risk

9

of 28 ZIP codes

B

About Tap Water in Erie, PA

The drinking water in Erie, PA generally meets all federal health standards, earning a solid B grade with a composite safety score of 80/100 across 28 ZIP codes. While the primary water utility, Erie City Water Authority, maintains adequate compliance with EPA regulations, there have been minor or administrative violations on record. Overall, residents receive safe tap water that is actively monitored by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

The accumulation of 28 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Erie's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The city relies on surface water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 9 out of 28 ZIP codes in Erie are rated as High or Very High risk for lead. This risk is often driven by aging homes with pre-1986 plumbing containing lead solder or service lines. Families in these areas should test their tap water and consider NSF/ANSI 53 certified filters.

⚠ Lead Risk Alert: Some ZIP codes in Erie are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk based on EPA data. Search your specific ZIP code for a detailed lead level report.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Erie

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Erie water systems over the past 5 years.

Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Erie, PA

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

B
16501

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16502

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16504

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16507

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16510

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16512

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16514

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16515

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16522

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16530

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16531

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16532

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16533

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16534

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16538

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16541

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16544

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16546

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16550

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16553

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16563

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16565

Erie, PA

Score: 82/1001 violation
B
16506

Erie, PA

Score: 77/1001 violation
B
16508

Erie, PA

Score: 77/1001 violation
B
16509

Erie, PA

Score: 77/1001 violation
B
16511

Erie, PA

Score: 77/1001 violation
B
16505

Erie, PA

Score: 72/1001 violation
C
16503

Erie, PA

Score: 69/1001 violation

Frequently Asked Questions — Erie Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Erie, PA?+
Yes — tap water in Erie meets all federal EPA standards and earns a B grade. It is generally safe for healthy adults. As always, running your tap for 30 seconds before use and using a filter adds extra protection for vulnerable populations.
What is the water quality score for Erie?+
The average water quality score across 28 ZIP codes in Erie, PA is 80/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Erie have lead in its tap water?+
9 out of 28 ZIP codes in Erie are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk. Older homes built before 1986 may have lead service lines or plumbing fixtures. Residents should run their tap for 30 seconds before use and consider a certified NSF/ANSI 53 lead filter.
How do I get the water quality report for Erie?+
Each ZIP code in Erie has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Erie's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Erie, PA primarily comes from surface water. Surface water systems treat water from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection before it reaches your tap.

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