D27/100
Somerset Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,483 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In Somerset's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Enforcement: 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
SOMERSET BORO MUNI WATER AUTH
Population Served
6,309
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA4560042
SOMERSET TWP MUNI AUTH OAKRIDG
Population Served
3,800
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA4560046
SOMERSET TWP M A FRIEDENS
Population Served
1,374
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA4560057
Frequently Asked Questions About Somerset Water
Is Somerset tap water safe to drink?
Somerset, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of D (27/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 370 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Somerset's water?
Of the 34 contaminants tested in Somerset's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Somerset have any water quality violations?
Yes, Somerset has 370 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Somerset?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Somerset is recommended. 1 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 Somerset's tap water come from?
Somerset's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by SOMERSET BORO MUNI WATER AUTH and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 11,483 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Somerset'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. Somerset'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 Somerset's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
Somerset's water quality score of 27/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. 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 Somerset's water quality?
If you have concerns about Somerset'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 (SOMERSET BORO MUNI WATER AUTH) 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.