F0/100
Pennsauken Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 71,644 residents · New Jersey
What's In Pennsauken's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.012 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.008 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
1,4-dioxane | 3.40 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 11, 2025 – July 15, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2025 – July 15, 2025Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2025 – July 15, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 1, 2023 – February 28, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 1, 2023 – February 28, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 25, 2023 – January 31, 2024Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
COLLINGSWOOD WATER DEPAR
Population Served
24,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NJ0412001
MERCHANTVILLE PENNSAUKEN
Population Served
47,144
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0424001
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsauken Water
Is Pennsauken tap water safe to drink?
Pennsauken, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 289 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Pennsauken's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Pennsauken's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Copper (90th percentile), strontium, 1,4-dioxane. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 5 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Pennsauken have any water quality violations?
Yes, Pennsauken has 289 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, MR, MON. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Pennsauken?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Pennsauken is recommended. 3 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 Pennsauken's tap water come from?
Pennsauken's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by COLLINGSWOOD WATER DEPAR and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 71,644 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Pennsauken'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. Pennsauken'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 Pennsauken's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Pennsauken'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 Pennsauken's water quality?
If you have concerns about Pennsauken'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 (COLLINGSWOOD WATER DEPAR) 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.