Comprehensive Guide to Water Quality in Philadelphia State: Contaminants, Issues, and Water Filtration Solutions

by Ryan Moreau / updated March 7th, 2025

Philadelphia State is recognized for the vast network of rivers, aquifers, and reservoirs that support both urban and suburban communities. Drawing primarily from the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers, as well as nearby groundwater sources, Philadelphia has a robust water system. However, the region still grapples with aging infrastructure, industrial legacies, and other stressors that can introduce contaminants into the water supply.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the common contaminants in Philadelphia’s water, regional water quality challenges, and effective filtration solutions. Start by using our Water Quality Tool to get a customized analysis of your local water conditions.

Overview of Philadelphia’s Water Sources

Philadelphia’s water supply is diverse, thanks to the city’s strategic location near major rivers and the presence of critical groundwater reserves. Key sources include:

• Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers: These rivers provide most of the municipal water for Philadelphia, supporting millions of residents.
• Local Reservoirs: The region also employs reservoir systems to store and treat water, helping to manage seasonal demand and potential droughts.
• Groundwater Wells: Many suburban and rural communities surrounding Philadelphia rely on groundwater aquifers, which can vary in quality depending on local geology and land use.

Maintaining water quality across these varied sources requires vigilant monitoring by the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) and state-of-the-art treatment solutions, particularly as urbanization continues to grow.

Common Water Quality Contaminants in Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s water sources may contain a range of contaminants, influenced by industrial activities, aging infrastructure, and agricultural practices in the broader watershed area. To better understand what might affect your neighborhood, start with our Water Quality Tool and then review these common issues:

1. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs)

PFAs have been detected in various parts of the Philadelphia region, often linked to industrial discharges, firefighting foams, and military base activities. Chronic exposure can affect thyroid function and immune response. For more detailed information, visit the EPA PFAs Tools and our PFAs Contamination Guide.

Water Filtration Options for PFAs: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters, Activated Carbon Water Filters

2. Nitrates

Although Philadelphia itself is highly urbanized, agricultural runoff from surrounding rural areas can lead to elevated nitrate levels in groundwater feeding the region. Excess nitrates pose particular risks for infants, causing methemoglobinemia or “blue baby syndrome.”

Water Filtration Options for Nitrates: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

3. Arsenic

Natural geological formations in certain parts of Pennsylvania can lead to arsenic contamination in well water. Long-term exposure to arsenic is associated with elevated risks of cancer and cardiovascular problems.

Water Filtration Options for Arsenic: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

4. Chlorine and Disinfection Byproducts

Municipal water systems in Philadelphia, like most major cities, use chlorine for disinfection. This essential step can generate byproducts such as trihalomethanes (THMs), linked to certain health concerns over long-term exposure.

Water Filtration Options for Chlorine and Disinfection Byproducts: Activated Carbon Water Filters, Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

5. Heavy Metals (Lead and Copper)

Aging infrastructure is a well-documented challenge in Philadelphia. Corrosion in older lead service lines and copper pipes can release these metals into drinking water, posing risks especially for children and pregnant women.

Water Filtration Options for Heavy Metals: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters, Activated Carbon Water Filters

6. Microbial Contaminants

While Philadelphia’s municipal water undergoes rigorous treatment, some private wells in the surrounding counties may be susceptible to microbial contamination due to inadequate well construction, septic system failures, or flooding events.

Water Filtration Options for Microbial Contaminants: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters with UV disinfection systems provide a robust barrier against bacteria and viruses.

7. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Industrial areas in and around Philadelphia may contribute VOCs such as benzene and toluene to local water sources. Prolonged exposure to VOCs can impact liver and kidney function, emphasizing the need for thorough water testing.

Water Filtration Options for VOCs: Activated Carbon Water Filters

8. Pesticides and Herbicides

Watersheds feeding the Philadelphia region can be exposed to pesticides and herbicides from farmland and lawns, potentially affecting both human health and the wider aquatic ecosystem.

Water Filtration Options for Pesticides and Herbicides: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters, Activated Carbon Water Filters

9. Fluoride

Like many municipalities, Philadelphia adds fluoride to its water supply to support dental health. However, excessive fluoride levels, whether natural or due to system imbalances, may lead to skeletal fluorosis in rare cases.

Water Filtration Options for Fluoride: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

Regional Water Quality Challenges in Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s multi-faceted history of industrial development, dense urban centers, and surrounding farmland shapes water quality issues across the region. According to the EPA and the Philadelphia Water Department, key challenges include:

1. Philadelphia City: Aging Infrastructure

Philadelphia’s water system is one of the oldest in the nation, with some water mains dating back more than a century. Corroded service lines can result in lead and copper contamination, driving ongoing infrastructure replacement projects.

2. Historic Industrial Sites

Areas around the Delaware River waterfront and former manufacturing hubs can face legacy pollution issues, including VOCs and PFAs, which seep into soil and groundwater (EPA – Industrial Wastewater Management).

3. Agricultural Runoff in the Greater Philadelphia Region

Agricultural practices in counties upstream contribute to nitrate, pesticide, and herbicide runoff, affecting Philadelphia’s raw water sources (EPA – Nutrient Pollution).

General Water Characteristics in Philadelphia

Beyond specific contaminants, natural factors such as regional geology and the local climate also play a role in shaping the overall quality of Philadelphia’s water supply. Being aware of these general traits helps in selecting tailored filtration systems.

1. Water Hardness

Philadelphia’s water, primarily drawn from the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, is generally considered moderately soft to slightly hard, depending on seasonal variations and specific river conditions. Hardness, when present, can contribute to scale buildup in pipes and reduce the efficiency of soaps and detergents.

Homes experiencing issues related to water hardness can benefit from water softeners. If you’re unsure whether you need a water softener or which type is best, try our Water Softener Calculator.

2. Corrosive Water Conditions

Certain localized groundwater sources in the Philadelphia region can be slightly acidic. When this water moves through older pipes, it increases the risk of corrosion-related issues such as lead and copper leaching.

• Acidic Conditions: Even a mildly acidic pH can degrade plumbing materials over time.
• Infrastructure Vulnerability: Historic buildings are more prone to corrosion and metal contamination.

To counter corrosive water, homeowners sometimes install an acid neutralizer to stabilize pH, protecting both household plumbing and health.

3. Impact of Regional Geology

Philadelphia’s geology includes layered sediment deposits from the rivers, potentially introducing minerals like iron and manganese into both well and surface water supplies. In addition, industrial land usage has led to chemically impacted soils in some areas, emphasizing the need for thorough testing.

• Sediment Levels: Storm events can increase turbidity in the rivers and reservoirs, requiring robust filtration.
• Localized Mineral Deposits: Elevated mineral content can alter taste and speed up scale formation in pipes.

Comprehensive filtration systems—ranging from reverse osmosis to whole-house filters—can reduce mineral content and other geological influences, ensuring cleaner water throughout the home.

Utilizing the Water Quality Tool for Philadelphia Residents

Knowing the specific contaminants in your local water supply is essential. Our Water Quality Tool helps Philadelphia residents by providing:

• Zip code–based insights into local water sources
• Information on prevalent contaminants tracked in public and private water systems
• Actionable recommendations for filtration methods tailored to your neighborhood’s water issues

Recommended Filtration Solutions for Common Philadelphia Contaminants

Given the contaminants frequently identified in Philadelphia’s water, the following filtration technologies can help ensure a cleaner, safer supply:

1. Activated Carbon Filters

Activated Carbon Filters excel at removing chlorine, VOCs, and certain PFAs while enhancing water’s taste and smell. These systems are often the first line of defense for city water treated with chlorine.

2. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse Osmosis Systems are highly effective for broad-spectrum contaminant removal, including nitrates, arsenic, lead, copper, and other heavy metals. They can be installed under sinks or as whole-house systems.

3. Whole House Water Filters

Whole House Water Filters offer comprehensive protection against common issues, such as sediment, chlorine, hardness, and corrosion, ensuring cleaner water at every tap.

Local Water Testing Services in Philadelphia

Accurate water testing is the cornerstone of effective water quality management. We recommend SimpleLab for detailed analysis of Philadelphia’s tap water. Their straightforward sampling kits and lab reports help you confirm the specific contaminants in your home’s water so you can choose the best filtration solution.

Case Studies: Addressing Water Quality Issues in Philadelphia

Several initiatives and real-life examples showcase how different water quality challenges have been tackled in Philadelphia:

1. Philadelphia City: Replacing Lead Service Lines

The City of Philadelphia has undertaken systematic efforts to replace aging lead service lines. By targeting known hotspots and offering assistance programs for homeowners, the overall incidence of lead contamination has steadily declined.

2. Regional Watersheds: Reducing Agricultural Runoff

Conservation groups partner with local farmers to promote best practices in nutrient management, helping reduce nitrate and pesticide levels in waterways that flow into Philadelphia’s reservoirs and rivers.

3. Former Industrial Zones: Mitigating PFAs and VOCs

In areas once dominated by manufacturing and military activities, cleanup efforts focus on groundwater remediation and vigilant monitoring. Advanced filtration methods, including activated carbon and reverse osmosis, are frequently deployed to ensure safe drinking water.

Call to Action

Philadelphia State’s extensive water supply—from the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers to its numerous groundwater wells—demands proactive strategies to ensure lasting water quality. By educating yourself on local contaminants and selecting proper filtration, you can help safeguard your household’s health.

Begin by entering your zip code into our Water Quality Tool for detailed information about your water supply. Next, browse our filter review articles to find the right system for your particular needs. Finally, validate your water’s purity with comprehensive water testing services and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s water is clean and safe.