Poor Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOA | 42.3 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOS | 12.2 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxS | 11.3 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 5.5 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBS | 4.6 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFHxA | 4.6 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHpA | 4.5 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 3.4 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Essex Fells, New Jersey (07021) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 37 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 26 points below the New Jersey state average of 62. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 2 water systems providing water to approximately 13,995 people, using surface water sources. Notably, 3 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 73 violations, including 13 health-based violations.
A score of 37/100 signals poor water quality in Essex Fells, NJ. Significant issues have been identified, which may include multiple violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS contamination. We recommend reviewing the detailed contaminant data below, considering a certified water filter, and checking your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for the latest information.
Common Questions
Tap water in Essex Fells, New Jersey receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 37/100. This indicates significant water quality concerns based on violation history, contaminant levels, or enforcement actions. We recommend reviewing the specific contaminants detected below and considering a certified water filter.
ZIP code 07021 is served by 2 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 13,995 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 07021. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
Yes — 8 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Essex Fells, New Jersey, and 3 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. PFAS are persistent chemicals linked to cancer, immune system effects, and developmental issues. A reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter certified for PFAS removal is recommended.
Water systems serving Essex Fells, New Jersey have received 73 violations in the last 5 years, including 13 health-based violations. Violations can range from paperwork issues (monitoring & reporting) to serious health-based violations where contaminant levels exceeded safe limits. Review the violation details above for specifics.
Based on detected contaminants (PFAS), residents in Essex Fells, New Jersey should consider: Reverse osmosis (RO) system — most effective for PFAS, lead, and other contaminants. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.