Is California, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
California tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 2 of 3 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for lithium. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does California Get Its Water?
Water in California, PA is provided by 3 public water systems: PA-AMERICAN WATER-BROWNSVILLE, AUTH OF BORO OF CHARLEROI and TRI CNTY JT MUNI AUTH.
How Is California Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine and chloramines and on-site generated disinfectant. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), direct filtration, membrane filtration and post-ozone biofiltration.
What's in California Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in California public water systems. 2 of 3 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 11.9 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 2 ZIPs | Above guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.007 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Within guideline |
| HFPO-DA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for California
Based on EPA monitoring data, 2 of 3 ZIP codes in California have recorded detections above EPA health guidelines. Sensitive populations such as infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may benefit from an additional layer of protection such as a certified point-of-use filter.
Best Filters for PFAS Water Profile
PFAS compounds are detected in this water supply. A reverse osmosis (RO) system or an activated-carbon filter specifically certified under NSF/ANSI P473 is required for reliable PFAS reduction. Standard pitcher and faucet filters without P473 certification do not remove PFAS.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
NSF-certified dual-layer filtration reduces 70+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, chlorine, microplastics, and bacteria.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about California Tap Water
Is California tap water safe to drink?
California tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 2 of 3 ZIP codes show contaminant levels above EPA health-based guidelines. A certified point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in California tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in California water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, HFPO-DA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does California get its drinking water?
California receives water from 3 public water systems, including PA-AMERICAN WATER-BROWNSVILLE.
Do I need a water filter in California?
If your ZIP code is among those with detections above EPA health guidelines, choose a filter certified for the specific contaminants shown in your ZIP report. Reverse osmosis is generally the broadest option for PFAS, lithium, and many other dissolved contaminants.
How often is California tap water tested?
Public water systems in California are required by the EPA to test for regulated contaminants on schedules ranging from daily (for microbials and disinfectants) to annual or triennial (for many chemical contaminants). Results are published in annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs). The data on this page reflects the most recent available EPA monitoring results, with the latest sample date of 2025-12-01.
Tap water reports by ZIP in California
- 15419 - California tap water report Higher concern
- 15423 - Long Branch, California tap water report Higher concern
- 15427 - Centerville, California tap water report Some concern
Water utilities serving California, PA
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- PA-AMERICAN WATER-BROWNSVILLEAction advised
- AUTH OF BORO OF CHARLEROILooks OK
- TRI CNTY JT MUNI AUTHLooks OK
Also covers / overlaps with
- West Pike Run, PA · Township
- Centerville, PA
- Coal Center, PA · Community
- Daisytown, PA · Community
- Long Branch, PA