Is West Chester, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — 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 ↓
40.1/100
waterverge.com West Chester, PA — Water Quality Report
West Chester's drinking water received a grade of F (40.1 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 1,200 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 384 violations on record, including 8 health-based violations. 25 remain unresolved.
What to know about West Chester's water
West Chester ranks #452 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
West Chester 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, West Chester may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 14 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is West Chester, PA water safe to drink?
West Chester's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (40.1/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 1,200 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for West Chester
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into West Chester's water quality assessment. Grade: F (40.1/100).
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Public Notice, Groundwater Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4618). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
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 West Chester'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
West Chester's water system has 384 total violations on record, including 8 health-based violations. 25 remain unresolved. 14 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Chester County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1996. 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 Valley Creek At Pa Turnpike Br Near Valley Forge, E Br Red Clay Cr, Birch St At Kennett Square, Red Clay Creek Near Kennett Square, Broad Run At Northbrook, Marsh Creek Near Glenmoore.
Where does West Chester's water come from?
West Chester's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 1,200 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Valley Creek At Pa Turnpike Br Near Valley Forge (river), E Br Red Clay Cr, Birch St At Kennett Square (river), Red Clay Creek Near Kennett Square (river), Broad Run At Northbrook (river), Marsh Creek Near Glenmoore (river).
What West Chester residents can do
Recommended: NSF 53-certified pitcher or under-sink filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in West Chester'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.
West Chester'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 West Chester
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near West Chester, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 5 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
METALLURGICAL PRODUCTS CO WEST CHESTER, PA19380 | Nickel | 5 | 1.0 mi |
FORCE INDUSTRIES DIVISON PAOLI, PA19301 | — | — | 8.2 mi |
BRANDYWINE MACHINE CO INC DOWNINGTOWN, PA19335 | — | — | 7.0 mi |
FENZI AGT USA LLC DOWNINGTOWN, PA19335 | — | — | 5.6 mi |
CHEMSTATION PHILADELPHIA DOWNINGTOWN, PA19335 | — | — | 5.4 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of West Chester
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.
- A I W FRANK MID COUNTY MUSTANG5.0 mi
- FOOTE MINERAL CO5.6 mi
- MALVERN TCE7.3 mi
- PAOLI RAIL YARD8.3 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
Chester County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1996. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in West Chester'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. | 1.45 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how West Chester compares by contaminant
Explore where West Chester ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where West Chester's water comes from
West Chester'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 public/private ownership and serves approximately 1,200 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near West Chester
West Chester is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving West Chester
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| WESTTOWN SCHOOL | PA1150834 | 900 | GW |
| DEVEREUX FOUNDATION BRANDYWINE | PA1150037 | 300 | GW |
How West Chester compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →West Chester's score of 40.1/100 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 West Chester, PA
Wikipedia →West Chester is a borough and the county seat of Chester County, Pennsylvania, United States. Located in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, the borough had a population of 18,671 at the 2020 census. West Chester is the mailing address for most of its neighboring townships.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to West Chester's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Chester
Frequently asked questions
Is West Chester, PA tap water safe to drink?
West Chester's water quality earned a grade of F (40.1/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #452 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in West Chester's water?
Lead was measured at 18.0 ppb (90th percentile). 384 violations are on record.
How is West Chester'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 West Chester?
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 West Chester's water come from?
West Chester's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 1,200 residents.
What health violations has West Chester's water system had?
West Chester has 8 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. 25 violations remain unresolved.
Is West Chester's groundwater at risk of contamination?
West Chester 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 384 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 West Chester's water compare to other cities?
West Chester ranks #452 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 19% of state cities) and #15176 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.