Is East Earl, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D+ — but Lead and Copper were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
52.3/100
waterverge.com East Earl, PA — Water Quality Report
East Earl's drinking water received a grade of D+ (52.3 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 3,288 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 18.0 ppb (90th percentile), which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 176 violations on record, including 31 health-based violations. 17 remain unresolved.
What to know about East Earl's water
East Earl ranks #308 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
East Earl 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.
Lead levels exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb, which typically indicates aging lead service lines or lead solder in the distribution system. An NSF 53-certified filter is strongly recommended for drinking and cooking water.
As a small community water system, East Earl may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 7 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is East Earl, PA water safe to drink?
East Earl's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D+ (52.3/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 3,288 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for East Earl
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into East Earl's water quality assessment. Grade: D+ (52.3/100).
Contaminants: Groundwater Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Public Notice, Groundwater Rule.
Contaminants: Groundwater Rule.
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 East Earl's water supply.
Exceeds EPA action level. Lead service line replacement and point-of-use filtration recommended.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
East Earl's water system has 176 total violations on record, including 31 health-based violations. 17 remain unresolved. 7 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Lancaster County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1973. 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 Pequea Creek Near Ronks.
Where does East Earl's water come from?
East Earl's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 3,288 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Pequea Creek Near Ronks (river).
What East Earl residents can do
Recommended: NSF 53-certified pitcher or under-sink filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in East Earl'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.
East Earl'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 East Earl
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near East Earl, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 134,010 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
TYSON POULTRY INC-NEW HOLLAND COMPLEX NEW HOLLAND, PA17557 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 133,568 | 3.4 mi |
HIGH CONCRETE GROUP LLC - DENVER FACILITY DENVER, PA17517 | Manganese | 261 | 9.4 mi |
DUTCHLAND LLC CHRISTIANA, PA17527 | Manganese | 178 | 9.5 mi |
KALAS MANUFACTURING INC PLANT 2 DENVER, PA17517 | Zinc compounds | 2 | 9.1 mi |
TITANIUM METALS CORP DBA TIMET MORGANTOWN, PA19543 | Chromium | 0 | 9.0 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of East Earl
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.
- WALSH LANDFILL5.9 mi
- WILLIAM DICK LAGOONS8.2 mi
- BLOSENSKI LANDFILL8.7 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtLancaster 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
Lancaster County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1973. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in East Earl'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. | 18.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 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. | 1.93 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how East Earl compares by contaminant
Explore where East Earl ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where East Earl's water comes from
East Earl'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 3,288 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near East Earl
East Earl is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving East Earl
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| WEAVERLAND VALLEY BLUE BALL | PA7360005 | 1,946 | GW |
| TERRE HILL BOROUGH | PA7360119 | 1,295 | GW |
| PINEHURST MANOR | PA7360092 | 47 | GW |
How East Earl compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →East Earl's score of 52.3/100 is on par with the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Pennsylvania rankings →About East Earl, PA
Wikipedia →East Earl is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in East Earl Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, United States. As of the 2010 census, it had a population of 1,144.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to East Earl's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Lancaster
Frequently asked questions
Is East Earl, PA tap water safe to drink?
East Earl's water quality earned a grade of D+ (52.3/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #308 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in East Earl's water?
Lead was measured at 18.0 ppb (90th percentile). 176 violations are on record.
How is East Earl'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 East Earl?
Yes — lead levels exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb. We recommend an NSF 53-certified filter or reverse osmosis system. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does East Earl's water come from?
East Earl's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 3,288 residents.
What health violations has East Earl's water system had?
East Earl has 31 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 17 violations remain unresolved.
Is East Earl's groundwater at risk of contamination?
East Earl 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 176 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 East Earl's water compare to other cities?
East Earl ranks #308 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 45% of state cities) and #12773 out of 15744 cities nationally (19th percentile). The grade of D+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.