West Caldwell, NJ
Tap Water Quality Report
West Caldwell's tap water receives a D+ or subpar rating. While modest levels of lead are present, the key contributing factor to West Caldwell's D+ rating is high contamination of PFOA and PFOS, the most well-studied forever chemicals. PFOA contamination is at 288% of the EPA future limits, which are not legally enforceable yet, but which we use for consistency throughout our reports.
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 contaminants like E.coli and fecal matter, as well as radiological contaminants like uranium, in West Caldwell's tap water are non-detectable or well within EPA limits.
Pesticides and herbicides, like atrazine, are non-detectable or well within EPA limits.
Disinfecting byproducts like TTHM and HAA5, while still a concern given their prevalence and long-term health risks, are all within EPA limits.
West Caldwell receives water from the Short Hills system, which is sourced from the Passaic River, Canoe Brook, the Brunswick Aquifer, and purchased supplemental supply.
West Caldwell Municipal Building
Heavy Metals Analysis
What are Heavy Metals?
Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements found in the earth's crust. While some are essential nutrients in small amounts, others can be toxic even at low concentrations. They can enter water supplies through natural deposits, industrial discharge, or corroding pipes.
West Caldwell's Heavy Metals
So in West Caldwell, the good news is that neither Arsenic, Chromium, Mercury nor Cadmium were detected. Less inspiring, but not catastrophic, was relatively low levels of Lead at 7.7% of the EPA maximum, but within EPA limits. However, the ultimate goal for lead is zero.
PFAS: "Forever Chemicals"
What are PFAS?
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are synthetic chemicals used in numerous consumer products since the 1940s. Their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them extremely persistent in the environment and human body, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals."
West Caldwell's PFAS Levels
West Caldwell exceeds the EPA future limits for certain PFAS compounds. This was a key contributing factor in the D+ grade. The EPA future limits are not yet legally enforceable, but we use them for consistency throughout our reports.
Other Contaminants
No other contaminants of significant concern were detected in West Caldwell's water supply.
Understanding Our Grading System
Our grading system evaluates water quality based on multiple contaminants and their potential health impacts. A single contaminant can significantly impact the overall grade, especially if it exceeds EPA limits or poses known health risks.
Regional Water Quality Comparison
The D+, Subpar rating is actually typical of the local area. Nearby Orange, New Jersey with no detectable lead, arsenic or forever chemicals, was the only local municipality to rate excellent.
Filtration 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
West Caldwell Community
West Caldwell Community 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.