Madison, New Jersey - Tap Water Quality
Our Verdict
Madison, New Jersey tap water receives a C or "Fair" grade from Town Water Check. The rating is primarily affected by PFOA levels that exceed future EPA limits by 200% and modest levels of heavy metals, particularly lead at 26% and arsenic at 14%.
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
Madison's tap water does not contain any detected amounts of biological or radiological contaminants and both are therefore within all EPA limits.
Heavy Metals
What are Heavy Metals?
Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements that have relatively high atomic weights and densities. While some are essential nutrients in small amounts, others can be toxic even at low concentrations. Common heavy metals found in water include lead, arsenic, chromium, mercury, and cadmium.
Madison's Heavy Metals
Madison's tap water shows lead at 26% and arsenic at 14% of EPA limits. However, the ultimate goal for both lead and arsenic is to be so low as to be undetectable.
PFAS - "Forever Chemicals"
What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used in many consumer products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. They're called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time.
Madison's PFAS Levels
Madison, New Jersey tap water shows PFOA exceeding future EPA limits at 200%, which is a significant contributor to the C or "Fair" rating.
Other Contaminants
No significant issues detected with other contaminants. Note that TDS (total dissolved solids) at 96% of EPA limits is not considered a health concern and may reflect mineral content in the water.
Understanding Our Grading System
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 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.
How Does Madison Compare Locally?
The C, Fair rating is actually typical of the local area. Nearby Chatham, New Jersey with lower contaminant levels, was the only local municipality to rate good.
Water Filter Recommendations
Given the level of PFAS and modest levels of heavy metals, we recommend using a reverse osmosis (RO) type filter with a NSF/ANSI 58 standard. Alternatively, some Carbon Block filters with an NSF/ANSI 53 rating may also be effective. 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
Final Thoughts
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.