US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
| Copper |
1830.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb |
UCMR5 occurrence results are screening information, not a finding of regulatory compliance or noncompliance. PFAS rules and compliance dates are evolving.
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFHxA | 8.4 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFOA | 7.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFBA | 5.2 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFOS | 4.1 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFPeA | 3.0 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in South River, New Jersey (08882) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 39 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 32 points below the New Jersey state average of 71. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by South River W Dept, a surface water system providing water to approximately 16,000 people. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 22 violations, including 6 health-based violations.
A score of 39/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for South River, NJ. These may include violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS detections. Review the detailed records, your utility's Consumer Confidence Report, and qualified local guidance.
Health Information
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, kidney damage, and cardiovascular effects in adults. The EPA action level is 15 ppb, but health experts recommend no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead enters water primarily through corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass fixtures — especially in homes built before 1986.
If lead is detected above 1 ppb, consider using a certified lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53) for drinking and cooking water. Run cold water for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes.
Copper can leach into water from copper plumbing, especially in newer homes or when water is acidic.
Short-term exposure above 1,300 ppb can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure may cause liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially vulnerable.
Copper pipes, fittings, and faucets are the most common source. Corrosive (low-pH) water accelerates copper leaching.
If copper levels are elevated, flush pipes by running water for 15–30 seconds before use. Reverse osmosis and distillation systems effectively remove copper.
Common Questions
Tap water in South River, New Jersey receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 39/100. 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 08882 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 16,000 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.
Lead levels in South River, New Jersey are 0.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
Yes — 5 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving South River, New Jersey, and 2 results exceeded the numerical EPA MCL value used for comparison. UCMR5 occurrence results alone are not a regulatory compliance determination. PFAS rules and compliance timelines are evolving; verify current information with the utility and EPA.
Water systems serving South River, New Jersey have received 22 violations in the last 5 years, including 6 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, copper), residents in South River, 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.
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