The Verdict
Essex Fells's water quality has received a rating of C-, Fair. Aside from relatively high lead levels, arsenic was not detected. However, the municipality exceeded 2026 EPA limits with PFOA "forever chemicals" at 288%.
Disclaimer: The Town Water Check grading system is our opinion, based on measured contaminant levels as well as the known effects on long-term human health. Others may reach a different conclusion. For the most current information, please consult your water provider or municipality.
The Good News
Biological and radiological contaminants, which can cause acute, immediate health reactions, were found to be within EPA limits for Essex Fells. Essex Fells draws its water from sixteen wells tapping Watchung Basalt, Brunswick Shale, and Stratified Glacial Drift aquifers, and sources additional purchased water when needed.
Heavy Metals
Of the five main types of heavy metals, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium were not detected in Essex Fells tap water. Lead was detected at 40% and chromium at 1.7% of EPA limits. While both are within EPA permissible limits, these can potentially accumulate in the body, especially in vulnerable populations. However, the ultimate goal for both lead and arsenic is to be so low as to be undetectable.
PFAS - "Forever Chemicals"
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), otherwise known as "forever chemicals" are a group of extremely stable synthetic compounds characterized by a carbon-fluorine bond – virtually the strongest bond in nature. Their widespread application in consumer goods and industrial processes has led to their ubiquitous environmental presence.
Essex Fells exceeded 2026 EPA future limits with PFOA at 288%. This is a key contributor to the C- grade. PFOS is at 75%, and PFHxS is at 40%, both within EPA future limits.
Essex Fells, NJ Fire Department
Other Contaminants
No other significant contaminant issues were detected in Essex Fells tap water. All other measured contaminants were within EPA permissible limits.
Our Grading System
Just as the Mona Lisa can be appreciated at different levels of scrutiny, tap water quality reveals its true nature through careful analysis. The more toxic the contaminant, in greater quantity, the lower the grade. Multiple contaminants further affect the grade. For instance, water containing both lead and arsenic would result in a worse grade than having either, individually.
Local Comparison
The C-, Fair rating is actually above average for the local area. Nearby Orange, New Jersey with no detectable lead, arsenic or forever chemicals, was the only local municipality to rate excellent.
Filter Recommendation
Given the levels of PFAS and heavy metals in Essex Fells tap water, we recommend using a reverse osmosis (RO) type filter with a NSF/ANSI 58 standard.
Just ensure they are certified to remove your particular water contaminants. If you would like to find out more about these filters, please visit: www.townwatercheck.com/water-filter-selection
Note: The Consumer Confidence Report does not indicate active water fluoridation in Essex Fells.
Essex Fells, NJ - Grover Cleveland Park
We hope that our tap water information has proven helpful.
Notes:
- For the latest tap water information, check with your water provider or municipality.
- The influence of contaminants on health relates to chronic, long-term, not acute or immediate effects. We make no claims, positive or negative, regarding tap water safety.
- Sampled tap water data tends to be more conservative than the average glass of tap water, often citing the 9th worst of 10 samples.
- The information contained in this report may not reflect the views of our advisors.
- Please contact Town Water Check if you feel we have made an error.
- For purposes of consistency, we use EPA limits throughout this report, not state or local limits.
Town Water Check wishes you a healthy and informed life and a cleaner, more beautiful planet.