Florham Park, New Jersey - Tap Water Quality

All biological and radiological contaminants were either undetectable or well within EPA limits. This is great news and means that Florham Park's water treatment processes are effectively handling these types of contaminants. Additionally, pesticides and disinfection byproducts are also well within safe limits.

Heavy metals are among the most common and concerning contaminants found in drinking water. The EPA has set maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for these metals, ranging from 2 to 100 parts per billion (PPB), but many health experts argue that there is no truly "safe" level of exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.

Florham Park's tap water shows acceptable results for heavy metals, with all levels within EPA limits. Lead was detected at 16% of EPA maximum, arsenic at 10%, and chromium at 4%. Mercury and cadmium were not detected. While these levels are within safe limits, the ultimate goal is for lead and arsenic to be undetectable, as there is no truly safe level of exposure to these metals.

In the 1930s, chemists discovered that by bonding carbon to fluorine, they could create incredibly stable compounds that resisted heat, water, and oil. These compounds, known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), became the backbone of countless products: non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, and even food packaging.

But there was a catch: PFAS don't break down. Ever. They accumulate in the environment, in our bodies, and in our water supplies. The EPA has set a limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for certain PFAS compounds—a level so low it's almost unimaginable. To put that in perspective, 4 ppt is like finding 4 drops of water in an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

On a more positive note, no other significant issues were detected in Florham Park tap water. All measured contaminants including radium, TTHM (total trihalomethanes), chlorine, copper, nitrate, uranium, nickel, barium, and HAA5 (haloacetic acids) are well within EPA limits.

To better understand our grading system, think of H2O or water as nature's masterpiece. Marking it up, or adding contaminants, generally diminishes its quality. Purer water or at least within all EPA limits will result in a good grade. Note that there are a few exceptions to the "less is more" rule. Fluoride, in the right quantity, can contribute to long term dental health, especially in children. Calcium, magnesium and potassium are also important nutrients. Note that these nutrients can also be obtained with a balanced diet or in the case of fluorine, by using fluoridated toothpaste.

The C-, Fair rating is actually slightly 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. Florham Park's C- grade places it in the middle range among neighboring communities.