Is Summerville, SC Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Summerville tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 2 of 2 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for lithium. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Summerville Get Its Water?
Water in Summerville, SC is provided by 4 public water systems: SUMMERVILLE CPW (SC1810003), CHARLESTON WATER SYSTEM (SC1010001), DCWA CALOMET VALLEY (1850009) and DCWA KNIGHTSVILLE (1820001).
How Is Summerville Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine and calcium hypochlorite and chloramines. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), direct filtration and groundwater disinfection.
What's in Summerville Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Summerville public water systems. 2 of 2 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 11.6 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFPeA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.003 µg/L | 2 ZIPs | Above guideline |
| PFOS | 0.0081 µg/L | — | 2 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFOA | 0.0065 µg/L | — | 2 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Summerville
Based on EPA monitoring data, 2 of 2 ZIP codes in Summerville 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 Filters for PFAS Water Profile
PFAS compounds are detected in this water supply. A reverse osmosis (RO) system or an activated-carbon filter specifically certified under NSF/ANSI P473 is required for reliable PFAS reduction. Standard pitcher and faucet filters without P473 certification do not remove PFAS.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
NSF-certified dual-layer filtration reduces 70+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, chlorine, microplastics, and bacteria.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Summerville Tap Water
Is Summerville tap water safe to drink?
Summerville tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 2 of 2 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 Summerville tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Summerville water systems include: lithium, PFPeA, PFOS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Summerville get its drinking water?
Summerville receives water from 4 public water systems, including SUMMERVILLE CPW (SC1810003).
Do I need a water filter in Summerville?
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 Summerville tap water tested?
Public water systems in Summerville 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 2025-09-24.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Summerville
- 29483 - Palmetto Park, Summerville tap water report Higher concern
- 29484 - Summerville tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Summerville, SC
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- SUMMERVILLE CPW (SC1810003)Action advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- Goose Creek-Hanahan CCD, SC · Township
- Summerville CCD, SC · Township