Pennsville Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The Pennsville Township Water Department provides drinking water to more than 13,000 residents in Salem County, South Jersey. This municipal utility draws its supply from wells tapping the Cohansey-Kirkwood aquifer system, a significant groundwater source for the region. Water undergoes treatment at the Water Street facility before distribution. For billing inquiries, residents can contact the department at 856-678-7500, with an after-hours emergency line available at 856-678-7777. The NJ DEP Drinking Water Watch offers access to detailed chemical testing results for those seeking more information on the water quality.

The water's journey begins underground, interacting directly with the Miocene Cohansey Formation and Kirkwood Group aquifers. These geological layers consist mainly of quartz sands and gravels, interspersed with glauconitic clays deposited during Tertiary marine environments. Natural leaching of alkaline earth metals from shell fragments within these sediments, alongside interactions with the geological materials, contributes to the water's moderately mineralized character. This permeable geology results in a supply with typical Coastal Plain dissolved solids, avoiding the extreme hardness often associated with limestone-rich areas.

Homeowners may notice gradual scale buildup in appliances like pipes, water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, which can reduce efficiency and increase energy costs over time. You might also see white deposits on kettles and faucets, and laundry may not feel as soft as expected. To combat these effects, regular descaling with vinegar, annual flushing of water heaters, and installing low-flow aerators are helpful practices. For persistent concerns about mineral content and to extend the lifespan of your appliances, a water softener is frequently recommended. Additionally, recent NJ DEP data indicates elevated levels of certain contaminants, including PFAS, for which filters are advised, particularly for infants.