Is Carlisle, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Carlisle tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 2 of 2 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for PFOS. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Carlisle Get Its Water?
Water in Carlisle, PA is provided by 6 public water systems: CARLISLE WATER TRMT PLT, N MIDDLETON WATER AUTH, PA AMER WATER CO, PA AMERICAN WATER CO WEST, SOUTH MIDDLETON TWP WATER AUTH and MIDDLESEX TWP MUNI AUTH.
How Is Carlisle Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using calcium hypochlorite and chloramines and free chlorine and on-site generated disinfectant. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), granular activated carbon filtration, groundwater disinfection and post-ozone biofiltration.
What's in Carlisle Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Carlisle public water systems. 2 of 2 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 0.0169 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | 2 ZIPs | Above guideline |
| lithium | 9 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFOA | 0.008 µg/L | — | 1 ZIP | Within guideline |
| PFBS | 0.0078 µg/L | — | 1 ZIP | Within guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Carlisle
Based on EPA monitoring data, 2 of 2 ZIP codes in Carlisle 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 Broad-Spectrum Filters for This Water Profile
This city profile includes PFAS detections, chlorine disinfection, and other dissolved contaminants. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems certified under NSF/ANSI 58 provide broad reduction coverage; for PFAS specifically, confirm NSF/ANSI P473 or equivalent PFAS reduction certification.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Carlisle Tap Water
Is Carlisle tap water safe to drink?
Carlisle tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 2 of 2 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 Carlisle tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Carlisle water systems include: PFOS, lithium, PFOA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Carlisle get its drinking water?
Carlisle receives water from 6 public water systems, including CARLISLE WATER TRMT PLT.
Do I need a water filter in Carlisle?
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 Carlisle tap water tested?
Public water systems in Carlisle 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 2025-09-22.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Carlisle
- 17013 - North Middleton, Carlisle tap water report Higher concern
- 17015 - Carlisle tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Carlisle, 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.
- SOUTH MIDDLETON TWP WATER AUTHAction advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- Middlesex, PA · Township
- North Middleton, PA · Township
- Schlusser, PA · CDP