Is Philadelphia Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Philadelphia's tap water meets EPA and state safety standards, monitored regularly for contaminants like lead, bacteria, and chemicals. It is generally safe to drink.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The city uses the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers as sources, treated with filtration, disinfection, and corrosion control to ensure quality and safety.

Residents with old plumbing may consider testing for lead at home; otherwise, Philadelphia’s water is reliable and potable according to official reports.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

United States is ranked as number 9 globally with a score of 96.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Philadelphia, United States

Philadelphia's main tap water sources are the Delaware River and Schuylkill River watersheds. These provide surface water for the city's supply.

Water is collected from reservoirs and treated at facilities like the Queen Lane and Baxter treatment plants. These plants ensure water safety and quality.

Both rivers are protected through watershed management programs to maintain water quality and reduce contamination risks before treatment.

Philadelphia Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Philadelphia are maintained under city health regulations and regularly cleaned to ensure safety and sanitation.

Water comes from the same treated municipal supply as tap water, meeting all federal and state drinking water standards.

Users should report any damage or contamination, but generally, public fountains provide safe, potable water for public use.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Philadelphia. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Philadelphia is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.