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WaterSafeCheck

Reading, PA Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 12 ZIP codes in Reading, Pennsylvania

Average Score

64/100

Health Violations

12

ZIP Codes

12

High Lead Risk

9

of 12 ZIP codes

C

About Tap Water in Reading, PA

Water quality in Reading, PA is currently rated with a moderate C grade (average score: 64/100 across 12 ZIP codes). This rating indicates that while the water provided by Reading Area Water Authority is treated and regulated, there have been notable compliance issues or contaminant detections recently. Residents should stay informed about the specific challenges affecting their local supply.

The accumulation of 12 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Reading'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 12 ZIP codes in Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading

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

Contaminant 0800

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 — Reading, PA

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

C
19603

Reading, PA

Score: 69/1001 violation
C
19609

Reading, PA

Score: 69/1001 violation
C
19612

Reading, PA

Score: 65/1001 violation
C
19601

Reading, PA

Score: 64/1001 violation
C
19604

Reading, PA

Score: 64/1001 violation
C
19607

Reading, PA

Score: 64/1001 violation
C
19608

Reading, PA

Score: 64/1001 violation
C
19610

Reading, PA

Score: 64/1001 violation
C
19611

Reading, PA

Score: 64/1001 violation
C
19602

Reading, PA

Score: 59/1001 violation
C
19605

Reading, PA

Score: 59/1001 violation
C
19606

Reading, PA

Score: 59/1001 violation

Frequently Asked Questions — Reading Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Reading, PA?+
Tap water in Reading has a grade of C, indicating compliance concerns in recent years. Families with young children or pregnant women should consider using a certified NSF/ANSI 53 water filter for drinking and cooking.
What is the water quality score for Reading?+
The average water quality score across 12 ZIP codes in Reading, PA is 64/100. 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 Reading have lead in its tap water?+
9 out of 12 ZIP codes in Reading 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 Reading?+
Each ZIP code in Reading 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 Reading's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Reading, 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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