Ephrata Area Joint Authority

The Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule (DBPR) has now been implemented. This updated regulation enhances public health protection by strengthening compliance monitoring requirements for Trihalomethanes (TTHM) and Haloacetic acids (HAA5). Together, Stage 1 and Stage 2 DBPR significantly improve water quality by controlling disinfection byproducts.

EAJA will collect quarterly samples to calculate an Operational Evaluation Level (OEL) at each sampling location according to PA Safe Drinking Water Regulations. As part of the DBPR implementation, EAJA conducts a system-wide flushing program. You may observe EAJA staff flushing water from hydrants throughout the borough.

Our continuous improvement program demonstrates our commitment to maintaining high water quality standards. We're investing in new technologies and expanding our capabilities to stay ahead of stricter requirements, increasing demand, and emerging threats to our water supply. A system serving a community like ours requires constant attention, care, and ongoing investment to maintain the level of service residents deserve.

WATER CONSERVATION TIPS

Did you know turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save 200 gallons monthly? A faucet dripping once per second wastes 5 gallons daily! Conservation begins with awareness.

• Install Water-Saving Fixtures:
  • Use low-flow showerheads (max 2.5 GPM) and faucets (max 2.2 GPM)
  • Replace top-loading washing machines with high-efficiency front-loaders that use 30% less water and 40-50% less energy
  • Only run full loads in washing machines and dishwashers
• Modify Daily Habits:
  • Turn off faucets while brushing teeth
  • Take shorter showers instead of baths
  • Turn off water while cleaning vegetables
  • Use brooms instead of hoses for cleaning outdoor surfaces
  • Wash vehicles with bucket water; use automatic shut-off nozzles if using hoses
• Outdoor Conservation:
  • Water lawns only when necessary (if grass doesn't spring back after walking on it)
  • Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering pavement
  • Use soaker hoses and drip irrigation to reduce water usage by 20-50%
  • Plant native species that require less water and maintenance
  • Cover pools to prevent evaporation

IDENTIFYING EAJA EMPLOYEES - SAFETY NOTICE

All EAJA staff are Ephrata Borough employees carrying visible identification badges. Staff visiting homes arrive in vehicles marked "Borough of Ephrata." Don't hesitate to request proper identification. If uncertain about anyone claiming to be an Ephrata employee, don't allow them entry. Contact our office at 717-738-9242 for verification.

LEAD INFORMATION

While EAJA's main water system contains no lead components, we cannot control materials used beyond municipal service lines or in household plumbing. Lead in water primarily comes from service lines and home plumbing materials. If present, elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. For information about testing methods and minimizing exposure, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead. We recommend consulting a licensed plumber about replacing lead service lines.

TREATMENT PROCESS

Before reaching your home, water undergoes multiple treatment stages at the Ephrata Area Joint Authority filtration plant. Raw intake water is initially screened to remove large debris. The water then undergoes aeration before entering a mixing chamber where unwanted contaminants are removed. Particles settle in a sedimentation basin, after which the water is disinfected and passed through media filters. Following a final disinfection stage, the water is stored in a clearwell before distribution to homes and businesses.

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