F0/100
Garfield Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 30,487 residents · New Jersey
What's In Garfield's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.008 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 290.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Violation related to Turbidity
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
GARFIELD WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
30,487
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0221001
Frequently Asked Questions About Garfield Water
Is Garfield tap water safe to drink?
Garfield, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 63 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Garfield's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Garfield's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Garfield have any water quality violations?
Yes, Garfield has 63 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Garfield?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Garfield is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Garfield's tap water come from?
Garfield's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by GARFIELD WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 30,487 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Garfield's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Garfield's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Garfield's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Garfield's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Garfield's water quality?
If you have concerns about Garfield's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (GARFIELD WATER DEPARTMENT) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.