F0/100
Shaw Afb Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,125 residents · South Carolina
What's In Shaw Afb's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
4
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
5 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.90 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
PFHxS | 0.019 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/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 2010.
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
SHAW AFB (SC4310501)
Population Served
5,125
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC4310501
Frequently Asked Questions About Shaw Afb Water
Is Shaw Afb tap water safe to drink?
Shaw Afb, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 54 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Shaw Afb's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Shaw Afb's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFHxS, PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 4 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 Shaw Afb have any water quality violations?
Yes, Shaw Afb has 54 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2010. Violation types include MR, MCL, TT. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Shaw Afb?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Shaw Afb is recommended. 4 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 Shaw Afb's tap water come from?
Shaw Afb's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SHAW AFB (SC4310501). The system serves approximately 5,125 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Shaw Afb'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. Shaw Afb'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 Shaw Afb's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Shaw Afb'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 South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Shaw Afb's water quality?
If you have concerns about Shaw Afb'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 (SHAW AFB (SC4310501)) 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.