Collingswood Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The Collingswood Water Department, serving about 13,926 residents in Camden County, New Jersey, draws all its water from five deep underground wells. These wells tap into the Potomac Raritan Magothy Aquifer, a significant source for the region. Four of the wells are located near the Highland & Hillcrest Ave Water Treatment Plant, with the fifth situated at the Comly & Cattell Avenue Water Treatment Plant. The wells themselves range from 250 to 320 feet in depth. Treatment at these facilities primarily involves disinfection and other essential processing steps before the water is distributed to homes and businesses.

The water's journey begins in the Potomac Raritan Magothy Aquifer, an extensive geological formation beneath the New Jersey coastal plain. This aquifer is recharged as precipitation seeps through overlying sands and clays. As the water moves through the ancient Cretaceous-era sediments, it encounters and dissolves minerals from permeable sands, gravels, limestone, and sandstone layers. This geological interaction is what gives the water its distinct, moderately hard character, evidenced by elevated levels of dissolved minerals that impact its overall quality and usability for various household applications.

This moderately hard water can lead to limescale buildup within your home's plumbing, gradually reducing water flow and potentially shortening the lifespan of appliances like water heaters and dishwashers. You might notice that soap doesn't lather as easily, requiring more detergent for effective cleaning. To combat these effects, homeowners often perform regular descaling of fixtures and appliances. Installing drain strainers can help catch mineral deposits. For those experiencing persistent issues like spotting on dishes or dry skin after showering, installing a whole-house water softener is generally recommended to protect your plumbing and improve water quality.