B70/100
Gaffney Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 40,398 residents · South Carolina
What's In Gaffney's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.016 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.013 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2014.
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
GRASSY POND WATER CORPORATION
Population Served
1,303
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC2023003
GAFFNEY BPW (1110001)
Population Served
24,290
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
SC1110001
GRASSY POND WATER CO INC (SC1120002)
Population Served
9,458
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC1120002
DRAYTONVILLE WATER DIST (SC1120003)
Population Served
5,347
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC1120003
Frequently Asked Questions About Gaffney Water
Is Gaffney tap water safe to drink?
Gaffney, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (70/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 2 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 Gaffney's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Gaffney's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA. 2 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 Gaffney have any water quality violations?
Yes, Gaffney has 31 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, RPT, TT. 10 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Gaffney?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Gaffney 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 Gaffney's tap water come from?
Gaffney's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by GRASSY POND WATER CORPORATION and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 40,398 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Gaffney'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. Gaffney'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 Gaffney's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Gaffney's water quality score of 70/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Gaffney's water quality?
If you have concerns about Gaffney'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 (GRASSY POND WATER CORPORATION) 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.