Is Ephrata, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Ephrata tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 1 of 1 ZIP code 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 Ephrata Get Its Water?
Water in Ephrata, PA is provided by 4 public water systems: EPHRATA AREA JOINT AUTHORITY, EAST COCALICO TOWNSHIP, WEST EARL WATER AUTHORITY and AKRON BOROUGH.
How Is Ephrata Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using chloramines and free chlorine. Treatment includes air stripping, conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), groundwater disinfection, ion exchange, membrane filtration, post-ozone biofiltration and slow sand filtration.
What's in Ephrata Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Ephrata public water systems. 1 of 1 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 25.7 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 8:2 FTS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 6:2 FTS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Ephrata
Based on EPA monitoring data, 1 of 1 ZIP codes in Ephrata 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 Ephrata Tap Water
Is Ephrata tap water safe to drink?
Ephrata tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 1 of 1 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 Ephrata tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Ephrata water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, 8:2 FTS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Ephrata get its drinking water?
Ephrata receives water from 4 public water systems, including EPHRATA AREA JOINT AUTHORITY.
Do I need a water filter in Ephrata?
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 Ephrata tap water tested?
Public water systems in Ephrata 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 2025-09-24.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Ephrata
- 17522 - Ephrata tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Ephrata, 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.
- EPHRATA AREA JOINT AUTHORITYAction advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- Brownstown, PA · CDP
- Clay, PA · CDP
- Earl, PA · Township
- East Cocalico, PA · Township
- Farmersville, PA · CDP
- Stevens, PA · CDP
- West Earl, PA · Township