A83/100
West Reading Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,300 residents · Pennsylvania
What's In West Reading's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: March 13, 2022 – October 18, 2022Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Failed treatment technique requirements
When: January 1, 2022 – October 18, 2022Rule: 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: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: 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: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: 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
WEST READING BORO WATER
Population Served
4,300
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
PA3060078
Frequently Asked Questions About West Reading Water
Is West Reading tap water safe to drink?
West Reading, Pennsylvania tap water receives a grade of A (83/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in West Reading's water?
31 contaminants were tested in West Reading's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does West Reading have any water quality violations?
Yes, West Reading has 13 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include Other, TT, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in West Reading?
West Reading 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does West Reading's tap water come from?
West Reading's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by WEST READING BORO WATER. The system serves approximately 4,300 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is West Reading'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. West Reading'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 West Reading's water compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
West Reading's water quality score of 83/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places West Reading 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 West Reading's water quality?
If you have concerns about West Reading'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 (WEST READING BORO 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.