Water Quality in Springfield, MA

Springfield's water has PFAS above EPA limits (6 ppt). An activated carbon filter can reduce PFAS levels. Read below for a full breakdown.

Springfield Water · Source: Cobble Mountain Reservoir · Serves 155,929 residents

51
Hardness (PPM)
50
TDS (PPM)
1
Chlorine (mg/L)
6
PFAS (ppt)
6
Lead (ppb)
51 PPM 0 400 Slightly Hard
CONTAMINANT LEVELS Hardness 51 PPM TDS 50 PPM PFAS 6 ppt Lead 6 ppb Chlorine 1 mg/L Nitrate 2 mg/L

Hardness Scale: Where Springfield Falls

Soft 060120180250400+
Soft waterLead concerns

Springfield's water comes from protected surface sources typical of the Northeast. At 51 PPM, the water is relatively soft. The primary concern in older northeastern cities is lead from aging plumbing infrastructure, particularly in buildings constructed before 1986.

What Springfield's Water Means for Your Home

Springfield's water is slightly hard at 51 PPM. At this level, hard water is not a significant concern for most households. Scale buildup is minimal, and a water softener would provide little measurable benefit. If you are considering water treatment in Springfield, focus on contaminant filtration rather than softening.

PFAS contamination is a significant concern in Springfield. At 6 parts per trillion, levels exceed the EPA's 2024 maximum contaminant level of 4 ppt. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment or the human body, which is why they are called "forever chemicals." Long-term exposure has been associated with increased cancer risk, thyroid disruption, and immune system effects. A whole-house activated carbon filter or point-of-use reverse osmosis system can reduce PFAS to safe levels. Look for NSF P473 certification when comparing products.

ContaminantDetectedHealth GuidelineLegal LimitStatus
Hardness (as CaCO₃)51 PPM< 60 PPMNo federal limit✓ OK
Total Dissolved Solids50 PPM< 300 PPM500 PPM✓ OK
PFAS (total)6 ppt4 ppt (EPA)4 ppt (2024)⚠ Above limit
Lead6 ppb0 ppb (no safe level)15 ppb (action level)⚠ Elevated
Chlorine / Chloramine1 mg/LTaste threshold ~1.04.0 mg/L✓ Normal
Nitrate2 mg/L5 mg/L10 mg/L✓ OK

Recommendations for Springfield Homes

🔬 Activated Carbon Filter for PFAS
PFAS detected at 6 ppt, above the EPA maximum contaminant level of 4 ppt. PFAS are linked to cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system effects with long-term exposure. A whole-house granular activated carbon (GAC) filter or a point-of-use reverse osmosis system can reduce PFAS. Look for NSF P473 certification, which specifically tests for PFAS removal.
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⚠️ Lead-Reduction Filter
Lead detected at 6 ppb. There is no safe level of lead in drinking water, and children are especially vulnerable. Lead typically enters water from old plumbing, not the source water. A point-of-use filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead is the most practical solution. If your home was built before 1986, testing is strongly recommended.
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About Springfield's Water Supply

Water Utility: Springfield Water

Water Source: Cobble Mountain Reservoir

Population Served: 155,929

Hardness: 51 PPM (3 grains per gallon)

Water quality can vary by neighborhood and season. The values above represent typical averages reported by Springfield Water. To get exact numbers for your address, request a copy of the most recent Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your utility, or have your water independently tested.

Compare Springfield to Other Massachusetts Cities

Boston

15 PPM · Soft

Worcester

38 PPM · Slightly Hard

Frequently Asked Questions About Springfield Water

Is Springfield tap water safe to drink?
Springfield's water meets EPA legal standards for drinking water safety. However, legal limits and health-optimal levels are different things. PFAS levels exceed the 2024 EPA health standard, which is a concern for long-term exposure. Lead levels are elevated. This is especially concerning in older buildings with lead service lines or lead solder. Review the contaminant table above for specific numbers and how they compare to both legal limits and health guidelines.
Do I need a water softener in Springfield?
Probably not. At 51 PPM, Springfield's water is on the softer end. Most homes will not experience noticeable scale buildup. That said, if you have high-end fixtures, a glass shower enclosure, or a tankless water heater, even mild hardness can leave mineral deposits over time. A salt-free conditioner is a low-cost insurance policy in that case.
What water filter is best for Springfield?
The best filter depends on which contaminants you want to address. For PFAS, look for a filter with NSF P473 certification. Granular activated carbon (GAC) and reverse osmosis systems are both effective. Standard carbon pitcher filters may not remove PFAS adequately. For lead, look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification specifically for lead reduction. Point-of-use filters at the kitchen faucet are the most practical approach. See our softener vs. filter guide to understand the difference between these categories.
Where does Springfield's water come from?
Springfield's drinking water is sourced from Cobble Mountain Reservoir and treated by Springfield Water. Springfield's water comes from protected surface sources typical of the Northeast. At 51 PPM, the water is relatively soft.
What is the hardness of Springfield water in grains per gallon?
Springfield's water hardness is 3 grains per gallon (GPG), which equals 51 parts per million (PPM). This is classified as slightly hard. To convert: 1 GPG = 17.1 PPM.
Does Springfield water damage tankless water heaters?
At 3 GPG, Springfield's water is unlikely to cause significant issues for tankless water heaters. However, if you notice reduced flow or efficiency over time, scale buildup could be a factor. Annual flushing with vinegar is good maintenance regardless of hardness.
Is Springfield water safe for babies and infants?
Lead is the primary concern for infants and young children. Springfield's lead level of 6 ppb is elevated. Run the cold water tap for 30 seconds before using it for formula or cooking, and consider a certified lead-reduction filter for the kitchen faucet.

Data sources. Water quality data compiled from EPA SDWIS, EWG Tap Water Database, USGS water hardness studies, and the Springfield Water Consumer Confidence Report. Hardness and contaminant levels represent typical average values and may vary by neighborhood and season. Last updated: 2026-02-12.