WaterVerge

Is Windsor, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Graded B+, with 2 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓

1K residents served 1 water system PWSID: PA7670065
Overall Score
84.2 / 100
Violations
2 active
Last Updated
May 2026
Source
Purchased surface water
#56 of 560 in Pennsylvania Top 39% nationally
Local Government
Moderate data confidence
Reviewed by WaterVerge Editorial Team · Last updated May 2026
B+GRADE
Water Quality Grade
84.2/100
waterverge.com
B+ 84.2/100

Windsor, PA — Water Quality Report

Windsor's drinking water received a grade of B+ (84.2 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,332 residents using purchased surface water.

Lead levels were measured at 12.0 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 23 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 2 remain unresolved.

Data last updated: May 2026 · Source: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5
Analysis

What to know about Windsor's water

Windsor ranks #56 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it one of the best in the state.

The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.

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, Windsor may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.

Quality Breakdown

Water quality score

See methodology →
84.2 out of 100 Grade B+
A: 90-100
B: 74-89
C: 60-73
F: <50
How is this calculated?
Violations
43.2/45
A
Historical violation record including health-based and monitoring violations.
Lead & Copper
12/20
C
Lead at 12.0 ppb (90th percentile).
Contaminants
17/20
B
PFAS + legacy contaminant analysis.
Compliance
8/10
B
Monitoring and reporting compliance with EPA regulations.
Source Risk
4/5
B
Water source: Purchased surface water.
Water Safety

Is Windsor, PA water safe to drink?

Use Caution

Windsor's tap water meets most EPA standards but has areas that warrant attention. With a grade of B+ (84.2/100), some contaminant levels or compliance issues suggest that residents may benefit from additional filtration. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,332 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).

2
Active Violations
12.0 ppb
Lead (90th %ile)
10 events
Disaster History

Recent water quality updates for Windsor

A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.

Update
Water quality data updated

Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Windsor's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (84.2/100).

Disaster
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA

Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4618). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.

Violation
1 drinking water violation recorded

Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.

Violation
1 drinking water violation recorded

Contaminants: Chlorine.

Violation
1 drinking water violation recorded

Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.

Disaster
HURRICANE SANDY

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 Windsor's water supply.

Lead Elevated
Detected: 12.0 ppb Limit: 15 ppb (EPA Action Level)

Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.

Violation history

Windsor's water system has 23 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 2 remain unresolved.

MROther
Most recent violations:
May 2017 Surface Water Treatment Rule Resolved
Apr 2017 Chlorine Resolved
Feb 2017 Surface Water Treatment Rule Resolved
Jan 2017 Chlorine Resolved
Jan 2008 Coliform (TCR) Resolved

Flood & environmental risk

York County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1975. 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 Codorus Creek Near Saginaw, Chiques Creek Near Marietta, Susquehanna River At Marietta, Susquehanna River At Columbia, Kreutz Creek At Strickler.

REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA
Hurricane FEMA DR-4618
HURRICANE SANDY
Hurricane FEMA DR-3356
TROPICAL STORM LEE
Flood FEMA DR-4030

Where does Windsor's water come from?

Windsor's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 1,332 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Codorus Creek Near Saginaw (river), Chiques Creek Near Marietta (river), Susquehanna River At Marietta (river), Susquehanna River At Columbia (river), Kreutz Creek At Strickler (river).

What Windsor residents can do

Request your utility's CCR

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.

Flush your taps

Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.

Monitor alerts during storms

Windsor'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.

Contaminant Alerts

Top contaminants to know

View all ↓
Lead (90th percentile)
Inorganic / Heavy Metal
Near Limit
12.0 ppb
EPA Action Level: 15 ppb · 80% of limit
Near LimitFilter: NSF-53
Compliance Record

Violation summary

23
Total violations
0
Health-based
2
Active / unresolved
May 2017
Most recent violation
Compliance Record

Violations & advisories

23 Total
2 Active
0 Health-based
21 Resolved
Violations by category
Surface Water Treatment Rule
6
Synthetic Organic Chemicals
6
Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
4
Nitrate Rule
2
Total Coliform Rule
1
Jul 2006 Active
Consumer Confidence Rule
Other Violation 0
Active
Compliance Violation
Monitoring 0
May 2017 Resolved
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved May 2017
Apr 2017 Resolved
Chlorine
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 2017
Feb 2017 Resolved
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Feb 2017
Jan 2017 Resolved
Chlorine
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Mar 2017
Jan 2008 Resolved
Coliform (TCR)
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jan 2008
Feb 2007 Resolved
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Feb 2007
Jan 2007 Resolved
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jan 2007
Jan 2007 Resolved
Chlorine
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Mar 2007
Dec 2006 Resolved
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2006
Nov 2006 Resolved
Surface Water Treatment Rule
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Nov 2006
Oct 2006 Resolved
Chlorine
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2006
Jun 1985 Resolved
Fluoride
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1988
Jun 1985 Resolved
Nitrate
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1988
Jul 1984 Resolved
Gross Alpha, Excl. Radon and U
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1988
Jun 1982 Resolved
Nitrate
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1985
Jun 1982 Resolved
Toxaphene
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1985
Jun 1982 Resolved
Methoxychlor
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1985
Jun 1982 Resolved
2,4,5-TP
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 1985
Showing 20 of 23 violations
Industrial pollution

Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Windsor

Industrial polluters nearby

Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Windsor, ranked by pounds discharged annually.

Total reported releases to surface water: 980 lbs

FacilityTop chemicalTo surface water (lbs/yr)Distance
DONSCO INC
Primary Metals · DONSCO INC
WRIGHTSVILLE, PA17368
Manganese8948.2 mi
ASC ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS - FKA ANVIL INTERNATIONAL
Primary Metals · ASC ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS
COLUMBIA, PA17512
Zinc compounds469.7 mi
THE FEDERAL METAL CO
Primary Metals · NA
COLUMBIA, PA17512
Zinc compounds209.2 mi
IWM - WIRE FACILITY
Primary Metals · PHIFER INC
YORK, PA17402
Copper compounds108.5 mi
TATE ACCESS FLOORS INC.
Fabricated Metals · TATE INC
RED LION, PA17356
Manganese91.9 mi

Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023

Site context

Superfund sites within 10 miles of Windsor

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.

Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List

Environmental Risk

Drought conditions

D2 — severe drought

York 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.

3
Weeks at D2+ (current streak)
10.1%
Months in D2+ (last 30y)
11
Weeks at D2+ (last 5y)

Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.

Environmental Risk

Flood & disaster history

10
Declared disasters
Sep 2021
Most recent
Hurricane
Most common type

York County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1975. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.

Sep 2021
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA
Hurricane FEMA #4618
Oct 2012
HURRICANE SANDY
Hurricane FEMA #3356
Sep 2011
TROPICAL STORM LEE
Flood FEMA #4030
Sep 2011
REMNANTS OF TROPICAL STORM LEE
Flood FEMA #3340
Sep 2005
HURRICANE KATRINA
Hurricane FEMA #3235
Sep 2004
TROPICAL DEPRESSION IVAN
Hurricane FEMA #1557

Recommended water filters

Based on contaminants detected in Windsor's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.

🚰
For Lead
Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53-Certified Pitcher
Lead detected at 12.0 ppb
Read our guide →

Full contaminants report

Contaminant Detected Level EPA Limit Unit Category Status
Lead (90th percentile) 12.0 15 ppb Inorganic Near Limit
Data source: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5, local utility CCR.

Lead level (90th percentile)

Latest reading: 12.0 ppb (1996)

EPA action level: 15 ppb

Infrastructure

Water source & infrastructure

Primary Source
Purchased Surface Water
Operator
Local Government
Population Served
1,332
Water Systems
1
Water Source

Where Windsor's water comes from

Purchased Surface Water

Windsor's drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.

Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.

The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 1,332 people through 1 water system.

Local Hydrology

Water bodies near Windsor

Windsor is located near 5 notable water bodies. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.

Codorus Creek Near Saginaw
river
Chiques Creek Near Marietta
river
Susquehanna River At Marietta
river
Susquehanna River At Columbia
river
Kreutz Creek At Strickler
river
Infrastructure

Water systems serving Windsor

System Name PWSID Population Source
WINDSOR BORO WATER AUTH PA7670065 1,332 SWP
Regional Comparison

How Windsor compares

Full Pennsylvania rankings →

Windsor's score of 84.2/100 is above the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 9 of 10 nearby cities.

Windsor (this city)
84.2
Bryn Mawr
34.2
Mcmurray
86.8
Greensburg
46.7
Pennsylvania avg
49
City Profile

About Windsor, PA

Economic Profile
$57,411
Median Income
$154,879
Median Home Value
$1,204/mo
Median Rent
8.2%
Unemployment
Community
28.3
Median Age
936
People / sq mi
14.2%
College Educated
49.6%
Homeownership
Share this reportHelp others learn about their water quality
WhatsAppXFacebookLinkedInEmail

Frequently asked questions

Is Windsor, PA tap water safe to drink?

Windsor's water quality earned a grade of B+ (84.2/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #56 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.

What contaminants are in Windsor's water?

Lead was measured at 12.0 ppb (90th percentile). 23 violations are on record.

How is Windsor'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 Windsor?

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 Windsor's water come from?

Windsor's water is sourced from Purchased surface water. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 1,332 residents.

How does Windsor's water compare to other cities?

Windsor ranks #56 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 90% of state cities) and #6055 out of 15744 cities nationally (62th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.

Does Windsor's small water system affect quality?

Windsor's system serves approximately 1,332 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 23 violations on record.