D34/100
Elgin Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,933 residents · South Carolina
What's In Elgin's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2016.
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
BGWC I-20 (SC3250012)
Population Served
6,637
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC3250012
BGWC GLENN VILLAGE II (SC3250058)
Population Served
1,116
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC3250058
BGWC OAKLAND PLANTATION (SC4350006)
Population Served
1,180
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC4350006
Frequently Asked Questions About Elgin Water
Is Elgin tap water safe to drink?
Elgin, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (34/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 134 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Elgin's water?
Of the 35 contaminants tested in Elgin's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Elgin have any water quality violations?
Yes, Elgin has 134 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2016. Violation types include MCL, MR. 16 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Elgin?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Elgin 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 Elgin's tap water come from?
Elgin's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BGWC I-20 (SC3250012) and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 8,933 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Elgin'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. Elgin'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 Elgin's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Elgin's water quality score of 34/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Elgin's water quality?
If you have concerns about Elgin'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 (BGWC I-20 (SC3250012)) 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.