F0/100
Emmaus Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 14,000 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In Emmaus's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
4
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
6 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.101 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFNA | 0.071 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFHxS | 0.025 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.017 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
1,4-dioxane | 0.480 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: June 10, 2024 – July 29, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2024 – May 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
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
EMMAUS BOROUGH PUBLIC WATER
Population Served
14,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
PA3390032
Frequently Asked Questions About Emmaus Water
Is Emmaus tap water safe to drink?
Emmaus, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 120 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Emmaus's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in Emmaus's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFNA, PFOA, PFHxS, Lead (90th percentile). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 6 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Emmaus have any water quality violations?
Yes, Emmaus has 120 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, MON, MR. 16 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Emmaus?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Emmaus is recommended. 4 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 Emmaus's tap water come from?
Emmaus's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by EMMAUS BOROUGH PUBLIC WATER. The system serves approximately 14,000 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Emmaus'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. Emmaus'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 Emmaus's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
Emmaus's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Pennsylvania state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Emmaus's water quality?
If you have concerns about Emmaus'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 (EMMAUS BOROUGH PUBLIC WATER) 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.