Franklin Park Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Middlesex Water Company supplies municipal water to Franklin Park, an unincorporated community within South Brunswick Township. The primary source is groundwater drawn from the Cohansey-Kirkwood aquifer, with supplemental surface water occasionally pulled from the Delaware and Raritan Canal or Raritan River to meet high demand. Key infrastructure includes the Park Avenue Well Field and treatment facilities like the Wilmington Avenue Treatment Plant. This system serves a vast area, providing water to over 450,000 customers across parts of Middlesex, Monmouth, and Mercer counties, originating from the Raritan River watershed.

The geology beneath Franklin Park is characterized by the Cohansey Formation sands and Miocene unconsolidated Quaternary sands, which form the main aquifer. These layers overlie Cretaceous clays and, further upland, Triassic Brunswick Group shales and sandstones. As rainwater filters through glacial outwash and marine sediments, it dissolves minerals like calcium and magnesium. The aquifer's high permeability and organic content help moderate this process, resulting in moderately hard water typical of the region's sedimentary geology.

With its moderately hard water, residents might notice scale buildup in appliances such as water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, which can reduce their efficiency and lifespan. Spotting on glassware and soap scum in bathrooms are also common. To manage this, monthly descaling of kettles and coffee makers with vinegar is suggested. Installing a water softener is a good way to extend appliance life and improve cleaning effectiveness. Alternatively, using high-efficiency detergents and scale-inhibiting filters at key fixtures can help mitigate issues. Franklin Park's water adheres to federal and state drinking water standards.