Water Quality in Erie, Pennsylvania

General Water Quality

The water quality in Erie is monitored and reported annually by Erie Water Works. According to the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) for 2023, the water in Erie meets all primary federal and state water quality standards¹. This ensures that the water is safe for drinking and daily use.

Contaminants and Testing

Erie Water Works conducts extensive testing for various contaminants, including:

• Microbiological Contaminants: Such as coliform bacteria.
• Inorganic Contaminants: Including arsenic, lead, and nitrates.
• Organic Contaminants: Such as pesticides and herbicides.
• Disinfection Byproducts: Including trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids.

The 2023 report indicates that all tested contaminants were within the acceptable limits set by regulatory agencies¹.

Water Hardness

Water hardness is a measure of the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions in the water. Hard water can cause scaling in pipes and appliances but is not harmful to health.

In Erie, the water is classified as moderately hard. The hardness levels typically range from 120 to 180 milligrams per liter (mg/L) of calcium carbonate¹. This level of hardness is common in many areas and can be managed with water softeners if necessary.

Additional Information

• pH Levels: The pH of the water in Erie is maintained within the range of 7.0 to 8.5, which is considered neutral to slightly alkaline.
• Chlorine Levels: Chlorine is used as a disinfectant to ensure the water remains free of harmful microorganisms. The chlorine levels are kept within the safe range of 0.2 to 4.0 mg/L.

Effects of Hard Water

• On Appliances: Mineral deposits can build up in pipes and appliances, reducing their efficiency and lifespan.
• On Skin and Hair: Hard water can cause dryness and irritation, making it difficult to lather soap and shampoo.
• On Cleaning: It can leave spots on dishes and glassware and make cleaning more challenging.

Solutions for water hardness in Erie Pennsylvania

• Water Softeners: Installing a water softener can help reduce the hardness of the water. This is not the best option because water softeners exchange salt for hardness, adding an unhealthy amount of salt to your drinking water. Which is corrosive and bad for the environment. Its usage is also being banned in many municipalities.
• HydroFLOW: this is the best option for treating hard water. It lets you keep the healthy calcium in your water but renders it harmless by not allowing it to adhere to your plumbing and fixture surfaces. Learn more about the benefits of HydroFLOW.

Conclusion

The water quality in Erie, Pennsylvania, is well within the safety standards set by federal and state regulations. While the water is moderately hard, it remains safe for consumption and daily use. Regular testing and monitoring by Erie Water Works ensure that residents receive high-quality water.

If you have any specific concerns or need more detailed information, you can access the full Consumer Confidence Report on the Erie Water Works website¹.