Is Paterson, NJ Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Paterson tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 14 of 14 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for PFPeA. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Paterson Get Its Water?
Water in Paterson, NJ is provided by 1 public water system: PASSAIC VALLEY WATER COMMISSION.
How Is Paterson Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine and ozone. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration).
What's in Paterson Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Paterson public water systems. 14 of 14 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 0.0093 µg/L | 0.003 µg/L | 14 ZIPs | Above guideline |
| lithium | 9 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFOA | 0.0103 µg/L | — | 14 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFHxA | 0.0086 µg/L | — | 14 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Paterson
Based on EPA monitoring data, 14 of 14 ZIP codes in Paterson have recorded detections above EPA health guidelines. Sensitive populations such as infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may benefit from an additional layer of protection such as a certified point-of-use filter.
Best Broad-Spectrum Filters for This Water Profile
This city profile includes PFAS detections, chlorine disinfection, and other dissolved contaminants. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems certified under NSF/ANSI 58 provide broad reduction coverage; for PFAS specifically, confirm NSF/ANSI P473 or equivalent PFAS reduction certification.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Paterson Tap Water
Is Paterson tap water safe to drink?
Paterson tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 14 of 14 ZIP codes show contaminant levels above EPA health-based guidelines. A certified point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in Paterson tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Paterson water systems include: PFPeA, lithium, PFOA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Paterson get its drinking water?
Paterson receives water from one public water system, including PASSAIC VALLEY WATER COMMISSION.
Do I need a water filter in Paterson?
If your ZIP code is among those with detections above EPA health guidelines, choose a filter certified for the specific contaminants shown in your ZIP report. Reverse osmosis is generally the broadest option for PFAS, lithium, and many other dissolved contaminants.
How often is Paterson tap water tested?
Public water systems in Paterson are required by the EPA to test for regulated contaminants on schedules ranging from daily (for microbials and disinfectants) to annual or triennial (for many chemical contaminants). Results are published in annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs). The data on this page reflects the most recent available EPA monitoring results, with the latest sample date of 2025-01-02.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Paterson
- 07501 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07502 - Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07503 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07504 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07505 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07509 - Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07510 - Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07513 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07514 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07522 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07524 - Riverside Terrace, Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07533 - Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07543 - Paterson tap water report Higher concern
- 07544 - Paterson tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Paterson, NJ
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- PASSAIC VALLEY WATER COMMISSIONAction advised