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Wilkes Barre, PA Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 14 ZIP codes in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

Average Score

65/100

Health Violations

0

ZIP Codes

14

High Lead Risk

4

of 14 ZIP codes

C

About Tap Water in Wilkes Barre, PA

Water quality in Wilkes Barre, PA is currently rated with a moderate C grade (average score: 65/100 across 14 ZIP codes). This rating indicates that while the water provided by Pa Amer Water Company Lake Scranton 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.

A major factor in Wilkes Barre's high rating is its flawless health-based violation record. Over the past 5 years of EPA tracking, local water systems have recorded zero health-based violations. This means that regulated contaminants—such as lead, arsenic, and harmful bacteria—have not exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) allowed by federal law. Drawing primarily from surface water, the city utilizes advanced filtration to maintain this standard.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 4 out of 14 ZIP codes in Wilkes Barre 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 Wilkes Barre 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.

Frequently Asked Questions — Wilkes Barre Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Wilkes Barre, PA?+
Tap water in Wilkes Barre 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 Wilkes Barre?+
The average water quality score across 14 ZIP codes in Wilkes Barre, PA is 65/100. 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 Wilkes Barre have lead in its tap water?+
4 out of 14 ZIP codes in Wilkes Barre 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 Wilkes Barre?+
Each ZIP code in Wilkes Barre 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 Wilkes Barre's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Wilkes Barre, 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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