Is Emmaus, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C+ — but PFOS and 1,4-Dioxane were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
65.2/100
waterverge.com Emmaus, PA — Water Quality Report
Emmaus's drinking water received a grade of C+ (65.2 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 14,000 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 3.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 13 PFAS compounds, with levels exceeding EPA maximum contaminant levels in the water supply.
The system has 120 violations on record, including 16 health-based violations. 2 remain unresolved.
What to know about Emmaus's water
Emmaus ranks #226 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Emmaus 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.
Of particular concern: PFAS "forever chemical" levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels. These synthetic compounds don't break down naturally and require specialized filtration such as reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.33 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Emmaus, PA water safe to drink?
Emmaus's tap water meets most EPA standards but has areas that warrant attention. With a grade of C+ (65.2/100), some contaminant levels or compliance issues suggest that residents may benefit from additional filtration. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 14,000 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Emmaus
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
PFAS levels exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or activated carbon filtration recommended.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Emmaus's water quality assessment. Grade: C+ (65.2/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5), TTHM.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3356). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Emmaus's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
PFAS "forever chemicals" exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filtration strongly recommended.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 13 PFAS compounds in Emmaus's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Emmaus's water system has 120 total violations on record, including 16 health-based violations. 2 remain unresolved. 4 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Lehigh County has experienced 8 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 Little Lehigh Creek Near Trexlertown, Spring Creek At Trexlertown, Little Lehigh Creek Near Allentown, Cedar Creek At Mouth Near Allentown, Little Lehigh Creek At Tenth St. Br. At Allentown.
Where does Emmaus's water come from?
Emmaus's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 14,000 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Little Lehigh Creek Near Trexlertown (river), Spring Creek At Trexlertown (river), Little Lehigh Creek Near Allentown (river), Cedar Creek At Mouth Near Allentown (river), Little Lehigh Creek At Tenth St. Br. At Allentown (river).
What Emmaus residents can do
Recommended: Reverse osmosis system. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Emmaus'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.
Emmaus'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 ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Emmaus
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Emmaus, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 246,051 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
GEO SPECIALTY CHEMICALS TRIMET PRODUCTS GROUP ALLENTOWN, PA18104 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 161,511 | 7.1 mi |
NESTLE PURINA PETCARE CO ALLENTOWN, PA18104 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 84,316 | 7.0 mi |
AMERICAN CRAFT BREWERY LLC BREINIGSVILLE, PA18031 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 218 | 7.5 mi |
BRIDESBURG FOUNDRY CO WHITEHALL, PA18052 | Copper | 6 | 7.2 mi |
LEHIGH HEAVY FORGE CORP BETHLEHEM, PA18015 | Lead And Lead Compounds | 1 | 9.6 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Emmaus
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.
- RODALE MANUFACTURING CO INC0.4 mi
- NOVAK SANITARY LANDFILL7.5 mi
- BERKS SAND PIT8.4 mi
- HELLERTOWN MANUFACTURING CO9.2 mi
- CROSSLEY FARM9.4 mi
+ 1 more site
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtLehigh County is currently in D1 (moderate 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
Lehigh County has experienced 8 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 Emmaus'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. | 3.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | 0.065 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | 0.042 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | 0.013 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | 0.017 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFDA | 0.007 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | 0.031 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | 0.042 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | 0.033 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | 0.100 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.022 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.153 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | 0.052 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | 0.022 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Emmaus compares by contaminant
Explore where Emmaus ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Emmaus's water comes from
Emmaus'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 14,000 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Emmaus
Emmaus is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Emmaus
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMMAUS BOROUGH PUBLIC WATER | PA3390032 | 14,000 | GW |
How Emmaus compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →Emmaus's score of 65.2/100 is above the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Pennsylvania rankings →About Emmaus, PA
Wikipedia →Emmaus is a borough in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, United States. As of the 2020 U.S. census, it had a population of 11,652. Emmaus is located in the Lehigh Valley, the third-largest metropolitan area in Pennsylvania and 68th-largest metropolitan area in the nation.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Emmaus's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Lehigh
Frequently asked questions
Is Emmaus, PA tap water safe to drink?
Emmaus's water quality earned a grade of C+ (65.2/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #226 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in Emmaus's water?
Lead was measured at 3.0 ppb (90th percentile). 13 PFAS compounds were detected. 120 violations are on record.
How is Emmaus'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 Emmaus?
PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter is recommended.
Where does Emmaus's water come from?
Emmaus's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 14,000 residents.
What health violations has Emmaus's water system had?
Emmaus has 16 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in June 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 2 violations remain unresolved.
Is Emmaus's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Emmaus 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 120 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.
Why does Emmaus have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
13 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Emmaus's water supply during UCMR 5 testing. PFAS contamination often originates from proximity to military installations (AFFF firefighting foam), airports, industrial manufacturing sites, or wastewater treatment facilities. Some levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels — a reverse osmosis or NSF-certified activated carbon filter is strongly recommended.
How does Emmaus's water compare to other cities?
Emmaus ranks #226 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 60% of state cities) and #11545 out of 15744 cities nationally (27th percentile). The grade of C+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.