B68/100
Gaston Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 10,576 residents · South Carolina
What's In Gaston'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) | 1.80 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
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
UPPER CALHOUN/BELLEVILLE (0920001)
Population Served
1,779
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC0920001
UPPER CALHOUN/SANDY RUN (SC0920002)
Population Served
1,247
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC0920002
GASTON RURAL WATER DIST (SC3220002)
Population Served
7,550
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC3220002
Frequently Asked Questions About Gaston Water
Is Gaston tap water safe to drink?
Gaston, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (68/100), which is considered good. 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 Gaston's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Gaston'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 Gaston have any water quality violations?
Yes, Gaston has 62 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Gaston?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Gaston 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 Gaston's tap water come from?
Gaston's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by UPPER CALHOUN/BELLEVILLE (0920001) and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 10,576 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Gaston'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. Gaston'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 Gaston's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Gaston's water quality score of 68/100 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 Gaston's water quality?
If you have concerns about Gaston'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 (UPPER CALHOUN/BELLEVILLE (0920001)) 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.