A85/100
Barnwell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,693 residents · South Carolina
What's In Barnwell's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.13 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 1993.
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
BARNWELL TOWN OF (SC0610001)
Population Served
4,693
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC0610001
Frequently Asked Questions About Barnwell Water
Is Barnwell tap water safe to drink?
Barnwell, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 32 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Barnwell's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Barnwell's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Barnwell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Barnwell has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 1993. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Barnwell?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Barnwell is recommended. 1 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 Barnwell's tap water come from?
Barnwell's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BARNWELL TOWN OF (SC0610001). The system serves approximately 4,693 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Barnwell'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. Barnwell'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 Barnwell's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Barnwell's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Barnwell among the better-performing water systems in South Carolina. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Barnwell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Barnwell'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 (BARNWELL TOWN OF (SC0610001)) 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.