Is Gap, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
41/100
waterverge.com Gap, PA — Water Quality Report
Gap's drinking water received a grade of F (41 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 6 water systems serve approximately 672 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 9.0 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 719 violations on record, including 16 health-based violations. 38 remain unresolved.
What to know about Gap's water
Gap ranks #444 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Gap 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, Gap may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 216 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Gap, PA water safe to drink?
Gap's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (41/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 6 water systems serve approximately 672 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Gap
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Gap's water quality assessment. Grade: F (41/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: Public Notice, Groundwater Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Public Notice, Groundwater Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform 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 Gap'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
Gap's water system has 719 total violations on record, including 16 health-based violations. 38 remain unresolved. 216 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 Gap's water come from?
Gap's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 6 water systems serving approximately 672 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 Gap residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Gap'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.
Gap'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 Gap
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Gap, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 133,746 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 | 8.1 mi |
DUTCHLAND LLC CHRISTIANA, PA17527 | Manganese | 178 | 1.4 mi |
BERK-TEK LLC NEW HOLLAND, PA17557 | — | — | 9.9 mi |
CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC NEW HOLLAND, PA17557 | — | — | 8.3 mi |
ACTION MANUFACTURING CO ATGLEN, PA19310 | — | — | 6.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Gap
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.
- OLD WILMINGTON ROAD GW CONTAMINATION6.0 mi
- BLOSENSKI LANDFILL6.2 mi
- WILLIAM DICK LAGOONS7.4 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtChester 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 Gap'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. | 9.0 | 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. | 1.40 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.400 mg/L (2010)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Gap compares by contaminant
Explore where Gap ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Gap's water comes from
Gap'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 private ownership and serves approximately 672 people through 6 water systems.
Water bodies near Gap
Gap is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Gap
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| HALIFAX VILLAGE | PA7220009 | 272 | GW |
| CONESTOGA HILLS COMMUNITY | PA7360015 | 150 | GW |
| HIDEAWAY MOBILE HOME PARK | PA1150049 | 95 | GW |
| VALLEY VIEW MHP WERNERSVILLE | PA3060073 | 60 | GW |
| COUNTRY VIEW VILLAGE LP | PA7500013 | 50 | GW |
| SCENIC VIEW | PA7360021 | 45 | GW |
How Gap compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →Gap's score of 41/100 is below the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 4 of 10 nearby cities. 6 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Pennsylvania rankings →About Gap, PA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Gap's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Dauphin
Frequently asked questions
Is Gap, PA tap water safe to drink?
Gap's water quality earned a grade of F (41/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #444 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in Gap's water?
Lead was measured at 9.0 ppb (90th percentile). 719 violations are on record.
How is Gap'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 Gap?
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 Gap's water come from?
Gap's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 6 water systems serving approximately 672 residents.
What health violations has Gap's water system had?
Gap has 16 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in January 2026. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 38 violations remain unresolved.
Is Gap's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Gap 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 719 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 Gap's water compare to other cities?
Gap ranks #444 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 21% of state cities) and #15084 out of 15744 cities nationally (4th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.