Water system
Saluda Cpw
What this means for you
- Is it safe to drink right now?
- Based on the latest EPA data, Saluda Cpw has no unresolved health-based violations from the past year. Water that meets federal standards is generally considered safe to drink for most healthy people.
- Should I use a filter?
- Yes, we recommend considering one. Average PFOA and PFOS was above the 4 ppt federal limit (compliance deadline April 2029). Other regulated PFAS (HFPO-DA) also exceeded 2024 limits.
- What kind of filter?
- For PFAS, look for NSF/ANSI 53 (with an explicit PFOA/PFOS or total PFAS claim) or NSF/ANSI 58 reverse osmosis. See matched standards and product picks.
This is general information from public EPA data, not medical advice. Lead often comes from a home’s own pipes, so only a test of your tap can tell your exposure. If you are pregnant, caring for an infant, or have a weakened immune system, ask your doctor or health department.
PFAS (“forever chemicals”), EPA UCMR 5
| Chemical | Highest location average | Highest single sample | Federal limit | Detections/samples |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBS | 2.7 ppt | 4.2 ppt | none | 3/4 |
| HFPO-DA | 25.3 ppt | 43 ppt | 10 ppt (proposed repeal) | 3/4 |
| PFPeA | 3.3 ppt | 7.9 ppt | none | 2/4 |
| PFOA | 4.7 ppt | 6.5 ppt | 4 ppt | 4/4 |
| PFOS | 7.9 ppt | 9.9 ppt | 4 ppt | 4/4 |
| PFHxA | 3.7 ppt | 6.2 ppt | none | 3/4 |
2 PFAS tested and not detected
PFNA, PFHxS (4 samples each, below EPA minimum reporting levels).
Hazard Index (PFHxS, PFNA, GenX, PFBS): 2.53 (limit 1.0, proposed for repeal).
Averages are per sampling location across UCMR 5 samples (non-detects counted as 0), approximating the rule’s running annual average. Not an official compliance determination; PFOA/PFOS MCL compliance begins April 26, 2029.
Lead and copper
Violations (last 5 years)
| Began | Type | Contaminant / rule | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-10-01 | Other paperwork/notice violation | Consumer Confidence Rule | Unaddressed |
| 2024-10-17 | Reporting problem | LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS | Resolved |
| 2024-10-17 | Required treatment not done | LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS | Resolved |
| 2024-10-01 | Other paperwork/notice violation | Consumer Confidence Rule | Unaddressed |
| 2022-04-01 | Contaminant above legal limit | TTHM | Resolved |
| 2022-01-01 | Contaminant above legal limit | TTHM | Resolved |
Filters matched to this water
Look for filters certified (NSF, IAPMO or WQA) to these standards for the specific contaminant. Buttons open the maker’s page or an Amazon search; use “Check NSF listing” to verify a model’s claims. No affiliate links yet — grades are never sold.
PFAS (other)
NSF/ANSI 58 (RO, total PFAS claim)NSF/ANSI 53 (check claim)PFOA
NSF/ANSI 53 (PFOA/PFOS claim)NSF/ANSI 58 (RO)PFOS
NSF/ANSI 53 (PFOA/PFOS claim)NSF/ANSI 58 (RO)Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM)
NSF/ANSI 53 (VOC claim)Chlorine/chloramine taste
NSF/ANSI 42Annual water quality report
Utilities must publish a Consumer Confidence Report every year by July 1. Find it on the utility’s website or ask them directly; EPA explains how.