What Philadelphia Residents Should Know
Philadelphia's water system is one of the oldest in the United States, serving approximately 1.5 million residents. The city draws water primarily from the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, both of which face ongoing contamination challenges from industrial activities, urban runoff, and agricultural pollution upstream.
While Philadelphia's water treatment plants work to meet federal and state standards, the city's aging infrastructure presents significant challenges. Many homes in Philadelphia were built before the 1986 lead ban, with an estimated 198,000 properties still served by lead service lines. The high percentage of pre-war housing stock means lead contamination is a primary concern in many neighborhoods.
Recent testing has shown elevated lead levels in some areas, particularly in older neighborhoods with higher concentrations of lead service lines. Additionally, PFAS ("forever chemicals") have been detected in both source waters and finished drinking water at levels that, while meeting current regulations, raise concerns among health experts.
Key Contaminants Found
These contaminants have been detected in Philadelphia's water supply at levels that may be concerning for some residents.
Haloacetic Acids (HAAs)
Near LimitSource: Byproducts formed when chlorine used to disinfect water reacts with organic matter
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure, reproductive and developmental effects
Philadelphia Levels: 45-58 ppb, varying seasonally and by location
EPA Limit: 60 ppb
Pharmaceutical Residues
Low LevelsSource: Medication residues in wastewater that can enter rivers upstream from water intakes
Health Effects: Largely unknown at current detected concentrations, potential endocrine disruption
Philadelphia Levels: Trace amounts of various pharmaceuticals detected
EPA Limit: Not currently regulated
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary significantly across Philadelphia's neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in housing age, pipe materials, and infrastructure maintenance.
Risk Areas by Neighborhood
| Neighborhood | Risk Level | Average Lead (ppb) | Buildings Pre-1986 | Lead Service Lines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Philadelphia | High | 12.5 | 88% | Very High |
| Kensington | High | 11.2 | 85% | Very High |
| West Philadelphia | High | 10.8 | 82% | High |
| Germantown | Medium | 8.4 | 75% | Medium |
| South Philadelphia | Medium | 7.6 | 70% | Medium |
| Center City | Medium | 6.9 | 62% | Medium |
| Northeast Philadelphia | Low | 3.2 | 28% | Low |
Data based on Philadelphia Water Department sampling and U.S. Census housing statistics.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on Philadelphia's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water
Request a free lead testing kit from the Philadelphia Water Department or use a certified laboratory to test your home's water for lead and other contaminants, particularly if you live in an older neighborhood.
Free Lead Testing ProgramRun Your Tap Before Use
If your water has been sitting for several hours, run cold water for at least 1-2 minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. For buildings with lead service lines, run water for 3-5 minutes.
Use Cold Water for Consumption
Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water can contain higher levels of lead and other contaminants as it dissolves them more readily from pipes.
Install a Water Filter
If you live in a high-risk area or have concerns about your water quality, use a filter certified to remove lead (NSF/ANSI Standard 53) and PFAS (NSF/ANSI Standard P473). Replace filter cartridges according to manufacturer recommendations.
Check for Lead Service Lines
The Philadelphia Water Department offers an online tool to determine if your property likely has a lead service line. You can also perform a simple scratch test on the pipe entering your home - lead will appear dull silver and scratch easily.
Philadelphia Lead Service Line MapApply for Lead Service Line Replacement
The Philadelphia Water Department has a program to replace lead service lines. Homeowners may qualify for free or reduced-cost replacement, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods.
Lead Line Replacement ProgramWant to know your personal water quality risk?
Answer a few quick questions about your home and get a personalized water quality assessment and action plan.
Take the Assessment