Is Bendersville, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C- — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
56.9/100
waterverge.com Bendersville, PA — Water Quality Report
Bendersville's drinking water received a grade of C- (56.9 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,039 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 5.9 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 92 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 11 remain unresolved.
What to know about Bendersville's water
Bendersville ranks #282 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Bendersville relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Bendersville may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 38 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Bendersville, PA water safe to drink?
Bendersville's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C- (56.9/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,039 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Bendersville
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Bendersville's water quality assessment. Grade: C- (56.9/100).
Contaminants: Gross Alpha, Excl. Radon and U, Radium-226, Radium-228.
Contaminants: Groundwater Rule.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3356). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4030). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Bendersville's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Bendersville's water system has 92 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 11 remain unresolved. 38 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Adams County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Mountain Creek Near Pine Grove Furnace, Swift Run At Brickcrafter Rd Nr New Oxford, Bermudian Creek At Oxford Road Nr Heidlersburg.
Where does Bendersville's water come from?
Bendersville's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 1,039 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Mountain Creek Near Pine Grove Furnace (river), Swift Run At Brickcrafter Rd Nr New Oxford (river), Bermudian Creek At Oxford Road Nr Heidlersburg (river).
What Bendersville residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Bendersville's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Bendersville's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Bendersville
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Bendersville, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
KNOUSE FOODS CORP INC MOUNTAIN ORCHARD COLD STORAGE ASPERS, PA17304 | — | — | 1.4 mi |
MOTTS LLP ASPERS, PA17304 | — | — | 1.4 mi |
KNOUSE FOODS COOP INC PEACH GLEN PLANT PEACH GLEN, PA17375 | — | — | 3.1 mi |
KNOUSE FOODS COOPERATIVE INC BIGLERVILLE PLANT BIGLERVILLE, PA17307 | — | — | 3.7 mi |
CARGILL FEED & NUTRITION GETTYSBURG GETTYSBURG, PA17325 | — | — | 9.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Bendersville
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- SHRIVER S CORNER6.1 mi
- WESTINGHOUSE ELEVATOR CO PLANT8.6 mi
- HUNTERSTOWN ROAD9.2 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtAdams County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Adams County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Bendersville's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 5.9 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 5.40 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 5.400 mg/L (1993)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Bendersville compares by contaminant
Explore where Bendersville ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Bendersville's water comes from
Bendersville's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 1,039 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Bendersville
Bendersville is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Bendersville
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BENDERSVILLE MUNI AUTH | PA7010002 | 1,039 | GW |
How Bendersville compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →Bendersville's score of 56.9/100 is above the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Pennsylvania rankings →About Bendersville, PA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Bendersville's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Adams
Frequently asked questions
Is Bendersville, PA tap water safe to drink?
Bendersville's water quality earned a grade of C- (56.9/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #282 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in Bendersville's water?
Lead was measured at 5.9 ppb (90th percentile). 92 violations are on record.
How is Bendersville's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Bendersville?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Bendersville's water come from?
Bendersville's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 1,039 residents.
Is Bendersville's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Bendersville uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 92 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Bendersville's water compare to other cities?
Bendersville ranks #282 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 50% of state cities) and #12417 out of 15744 cities nationally (21th percentile). The grade of C- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Does Bendersville's small water system affect quality?
Bendersville's system serves approximately 1,039 residents. Small community water systems (under 3,300 people) may have fewer financial resources for infrastructure upgrades and advanced treatment technologies. However, they are held to the same EPA drinking water standards as larger systems. This system has 92 violations on record.