Is Summit Hill, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B- — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
70.7/100
waterverge.com Summit Hill, PA — Water Quality Report
Summit Hill's drinking water received a grade of B- (70.7 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 2,890 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 13.0 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 29 violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 5 remain unresolved.
What to know about Summit Hill's water
Summit Hill ranks #180 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Summit Hill 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, Summit Hill 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 Summit Hill, PA water safe to drink?
Summit Hill's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B- (70.7/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 2,890 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Summit Hill
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Summit Hill's water quality assessment. Grade: B- (70.7/100).
Contaminants: Chlorine, Groundwater Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Public Notice, Groundwater Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3356). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3340). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Summit Hill'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
Summit Hill's water system has 29 total violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 5 remain unresolved. 7 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Carbon County has experienced 8 federally declared disasters since 1969. 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 Hazleton Pond Gage No. 1 Near Beaver Meadows, Little Schuylkill River At Tamaqua.
Where does Summit Hill's water come from?
Summit Hill's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 2,890 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Hazleton Pond Gage No. 1 Near Beaver Meadows (lake), Little Schuylkill River At Tamaqua (river).
What Summit Hill residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Summit Hill'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.
Summit Hill'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 Summit Hill
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Summit Hill, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 677 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
VERSUM MATERIALS US LLC TAMAQUA, PA18252 | Hydrogen fluoride | 677 | 9.8 mi |
BLUE RIDGE PRESSURE CASTINGS LEHIGHTON, PA18235 | Copper | 0 | 6.8 mi |
WESTCHESTER PLASTICS LLC NESQUEHONING, PA18240 | — | — | 2.5 mi |
PANTHER CREEK POWER OPERATING LLC NESQUEHONING, PA18240 | — | — | 2.7 mi |
COPPERHEAD CHEMICAL CO INC TAMAQUA, PA18252 | — | — | 8.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Summit Hill
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.
- TONOLLI CORP2.5 mi
- EASTERN DIVERSIFIED METALS7.9 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtCarbon 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
Carbon County has experienced 8 federally declared disasters since 1969. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Summit Hill'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. | 13.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Near 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. | 3.21 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 13.0 ppb (1993)
EPA action level: 15 ppb
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Summit Hill compares by contaminant
Explore where Summit Hill ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Summit Hill's water comes from
Summit Hill'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 2,890 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Summit Hill
Summit Hill is located near 2 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Summit Hill
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUMMIT HILL WATER AUTHORITY | PA3130013 | 2,890 | GW |
How Summit Hill compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →Summit Hill's score of 70.7/100 is above the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Pennsylvania rankings →About Summit Hill, PA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Summit Hill's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Carbon
Frequently asked questions
Is Summit Hill, PA tap water safe to drink?
Summit Hill's water quality earned a grade of B- (70.7/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #180 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in Summit Hill's water?
Lead was measured at 13.0 ppb (90th percentile). 29 violations are on record.
How is Summit Hill'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 Summit Hill?
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 Summit Hill's water come from?
Summit Hill's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 2,890 residents.
What health violations has Summit Hill's water system had?
Summit Hill has 1 health-based violation on record. The most recent violation was recorded in November 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 5 violations remain unresolved.
Is Summit Hill's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Summit Hill 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 29 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 Summit Hill's water compare to other cities?
Summit Hill ranks #180 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 68% of state cities) and #10692 out of 15744 cities nationally (32th percentile). The grade of B- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Does Summit Hill's small water system affect quality?
Summit Hill's system serves approximately 2,890 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 29 violations on record.