Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 19.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOA | 18.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOS | 17.1 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOS | 16.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOA | 15.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOA | 13.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFPeA | 9.3 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 6.9 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Gaffney, South Carolina (29341) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 54 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 27 points below the South Carolina state average of 81. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 40,365 people, using surface water sources. Notably, 8 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 17 violations, including 12 health-based violations.
A score of 54/100 signals poor water quality in Gaffney, SC. 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.
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.
Common Questions
Tap water in Gaffney, South Carolina receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 54/100. 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 29341 is served by 4 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 40,365 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 Gaffney, South Carolina are 1.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
Yes — 23 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Gaffney, South Carolina, and 8 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 Gaffney, South Carolina have received 17 violations in the last 5 years, including 12 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 Gaffney, South Carolina 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.