South Orange, New Jersey - Tap Water Quality
Our Verdict
South Orange, New Jersey tap water receives a C- or "Fair" grade from Town Water Check. While biological and radiological contaminants, pesticides, and disinfecting byproducts were within EPA limits, the presence of PFOA at 150% of EPA future limits is a concern. Heavy metals including lead (20%) and arsenic (10%) were detected, though within current EPA limits. The zero goal for lead and arsenic remains the health standard.
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, pesticides, and disinfecting byproducts were all within EPA limits in South Orange. The town receives all its water from the Short Hills system, which is sourced from the Passaic River, Canoe Brook, Brunswick Aquifer, glacial deposits, and purchased supplies.
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.
South Orange's Heavy Metals
South Orange's tap water shows lead at 20% and arsenic at 10% of EPA limits. Chromium, mercury, and cadmium were not detected. 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.
South Orange's PFAS Levels
South Orange exceeded EPA future limits for PFOA at 150%. PFOS was detected at 50% of EPA future limits, and PFHxS was near undetectable levels. The exceedance of PFOA was a key contributing factor to South Orange's C- rating. While these future EPA limits are not yet legally enforceable, we use them throughout our report for consistency and to provide forward-looking water quality information.
Other Contaminants
No other significant contaminant issues were detected in South Orange's water supply. All other tested contaminants were within EPA limits.
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 South Orange Compare Locally?
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.
Water Filter Recommendations
Given the levels of PFAS and heavy metals in South Orange 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
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.