Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| Contaminant | Detected | EPA limit | EWG guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead | 4.8 ppb | 15 ppb | 0.5 ppb | 10× EWG |
| PFAS (PFOA + PFOS) | 3.5 ppt | 4 ppt | 0.004 ppt | 875× EWG |
| Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 38.5 ppb | 80 ppb | 0.8 ppb | 48× EWG |
| Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) | 25.3 ppb | 60 ppb | 0.1 ppb | 253× EWG |
| Chloramine | 2.6 mg/L | 4 mg/L | — | — |
Context
Philadelphia has significant lead infrastructure — an estimated 20,000-30,000 lead service lines remain in use. Lead levels at the 90th percentile (4.8 ppb) are among the higher readings for major US cities.
PFAS contamination at 3.5 ppt is approaching the EPA MCL of 4 ppt. The Delaware River watershed receives PFAS from multiple upstream industrial and wastewater sources.
In 2023, a chemical spill in the Delaware River (butyl acrylate from a train derailment in Bucks County) caused temporary tap water advisories for millions in the Philadelphia region, highlighting the vulnerability of river-sourced drinking water.
The Schuylkill River source is impacted by agricultural runoff and historical industrial contamination, contributing to higher treatment demands.
Common questions
Is Philadelphia tap water safe to drink?
Philadelphia water meets EPA standards, but lead levels (4.8 ppb at the 90th percentile) and PFAS levels (3.5 ppt) are both elevated. Lead is particularly concerning in homes built before 1986. A certified lead-removal filter is recommended for all Philadelphia households, and an RO system for comprehensive protection.
Does Philly water have PFAS?
Yes. PFAS is detected at approximately 3.5 ppt in Philadelphia water, just below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt. The Delaware River receives PFAS from multiple upstream sources. Reverse osmosis and quality activated carbon filters are effective at reducing PFAS levels.
Does Philadelphia have lead in the water?
Philadelphia has an estimated 20,000-30,000 lead service lines still in use, and the 90th percentile lead level of 4.8 ppb exceeds the EWG guideline by nearly 10x. Homes built before 1986 are most at risk. Use a filter certified to NSF 53 for lead removal, and run your tap for 30 seconds before drinking if water has been sitting in pipes.
Philadelphia's twin concerns are lead (from aging infrastructure) and PFAS (from Delaware River watershed contamination). The 2023 chemical spill also demonstrated the vulnerability of river-sourced supplies.
the Delaware River and Schuylkill River, treated at three water treatment plants — Baxter, Queen Lane, and Belmont
This data reflects system-wide testing. Your home's plumbing may add or reduce contaminants.
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