A93/100
New Castle Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 161,867 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In New Castle's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 11, 2023 – April 2, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: 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
PA AMERICAN WATER KITTANNING
Population Served
4,617
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA5030008
PA AMERICAN WATER CO BUTLER
Population Served
43,286
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA5100012
PA AMERICAN WATER CO-INDIANA D
Population Served
22,360
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA5320025
PA AMERICAN WATER CO CLARION
Population Served
16,600
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA6160001
PA AMERICAN WATER PUNXSY
Population Served
8,800
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA6330010
PA AMER WATER CO ELLWOOD CTY
Population Served
17,200
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA6370011
PA AMER WATER CO NEW CASTLE
Population Served
43,279
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA6370034
PA AMERICAN WATER CO KANE
Population Served
5,725
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
PA6420019
Frequently Asked Questions About New Castle Water
Is New Castle tap water safe to drink?
New Castle, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of A (93/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in New Castle's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in New Castle's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does New Castle have any water quality violations?
Yes, New Castle has 21 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include RPT, MR, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in New Castle?
New Castle water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does New Castle's tap water come from?
New Castle's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by PA AMERICAN WATER KITTANNING and 7 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 161,867 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is New Castle'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. New Castle'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 New Castle's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
New Castle's water quality score of 93/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places New Castle among the better-performing water systems in Pennsylvania. Visit our Pennsylvania state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about New Castle's water quality?
If you have concerns about New Castle'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 (PA AMERICAN WATER KITTANNING) 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.