C56/100
Allentown Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 195,363 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In Allentown's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.007 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Violation related to Consumer Confidence Report
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
LCA ALLENTOWN DIVISION
Population Served
118,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA3390024
LCA NORTH WHITEHALL DIVISION
Population Served
2,910
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3390055
SALISBURY TWP WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
8,522
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3390062
SWT MAIN SYSTEM
Population Served
14,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3390065
LCA WLSA CENTRAL DIVISION
Population Served
47,693
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3390073
LCA EMMAUS CONSECUTIVE DIV
Population Served
1,046
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
PA3390075
SWT ALLENTOWN CONS SYSTEM
Population Served
1,300
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3390087
LCA ARCADIA WEST DIVISION
Population Served
1,392
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
PA3391001
Frequently Asked Questions About Allentown Water
Is Allentown tap water safe to drink?
Allentown, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of C (56/100), which is considered fair. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 313 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Allentown's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Allentown's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 5 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Allentown have any water quality violations?
Yes, Allentown has 313 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, MON. 36 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Allentown?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Allentown is recommended. 3 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Allentown's tap water come from?
Allentown's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by LCA ALLENTOWN DIVISION and 7 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 195,363 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Allentown's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Allentown's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Allentown's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
Allentown's water quality score of 56/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Pennsylvania state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Allentown's water quality?
If you have concerns about Allentown's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (LCA ALLENTOWN DIVISION) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.