Is Ridgeville, SC Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B+ — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
83.1/100
waterverge.com Ridgeville, SC — Water Quality Report
Ridgeville's drinking water received a grade of B+ (83.1 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 4 water systems serve approximately 4,071 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 1.5 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 32 violations on record, including 5 health-based violations. 13 remain unresolved.
What to know about Ridgeville's water
Ridgeville ranks #122 out of 196 cities in South Carolina for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Ridgeville relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Ridgeville, SC water safe to drink?
Ridgeville's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (83.1/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 4 water systems serve approximately 4,071 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Ridgeville
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Ridgeville's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (83.1/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4829). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3597). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule.
Contaminants: Stage 2 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Ridgeville's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Ridgeville's water system has 32 total violations on record, including 5 health-based violations. 13 remain unresolved.
Flood & environmental risk
Richland County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2016. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Broad River, Smith Branch, Saluda River, Congaree River, Rocky Branch.
Where does Ridgeville's water come from?
Ridgeville's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 4 water systems serving approximately 4,071 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Broad River (river), Smith Branch (river), Saluda River (river), Congaree River (river), Rocky Branch (river).
What Ridgeville residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Ridgeville's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Ridgeville's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Ridgeville
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Ridgeville, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
KEY WEST BOATS INC. PLANT 1 (RIDGEVILLE) RIDGEVILLE, SC29472 | — | — | 1.6 mi |
RESONAC GRAPHITE AMERICA INC RIDGEVILLE, SC29472 | — | — | 2.0 mi |
VOLVO CAR USA LLC RIDGEVILLE, SC29472 | — | — | 4.0 mi |
CUTTING EDGE COMPOSITES SUMMERVILLE, SC29483 | — | — | 4.8 mi |
CONCRETE PIPE & PRECAST LLC-SUMMERVILLE PRECAST PLANT SUMMERVILLE, SC29483 | — | — | 6.0 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D3 — extreme droughtBerkeley County is currently in D3 (extreme drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Richland County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2016. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Ridgeville's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 1.5 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 1.43 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.430 mg/L (1997)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Ridgeville compares by contaminant
Explore where Ridgeville ranks among all South Carolina cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Ridgeville's water comes from
Ridgeville's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by private ownership and serves approximately 4,071 people through 4 water systems.
Water bodies near Ridgeville
Ridgeville is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Ridgeville
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIEBER CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTE (1870050) | SC1870050 | 1,646 | GW |
| DCWS EDISTO TRIBAL COUNCIL (1850010) | SC1850010 | 925 | GW |
| MACDOUGALL CORRECTIONAL INST (SC0870050) | SC0870050 | 790 | GW |
| RIDGEVILLE TOWN OF (SC1810004) | SC1810004 | 710 | GW |
How Ridgeville compares
Full South Carolina rankings →Ridgeville's score of 83.1/100 is above the average of 77/100 among major South Carolina cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View South Carolina rankings →About Ridgeville, SC
Wikipedia →Columbia is the capital city of the U.S. state of South Carolina. It is the second-most populous city in the state, with a population of 136,632 at the 2020 census. The Columbia metropolitan area has an estimated 870,000 residents. Columbia serves as the county seat of Richland County, and portions of the city extend into neighboring Lexington County and Kershaw County. The name "Columbia", a poetic term referring to the U.S., derives from the name of Christopher Columbus, who explored the Caribbean on behalf of the Spanish Empire. The name of the city is often abbreviated as "Cola", leading to its nickname "Soda City".
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Ridgeville's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Dorchester
Frequently asked questions
Is Ridgeville, SC tap water safe to drink?
Ridgeville's water quality earned a grade of B+ (83.1/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #122 out of 196 cities tested in South Carolina.
What contaminants are in Ridgeville's water?
Lead was measured at 1.5 ppb (90th percentile). 32 violations are on record.
How is Ridgeville's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Ridgeville?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Ridgeville's water come from?
Ridgeville's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 4 water systems serving approximately 4,071 residents.
What health violations has Ridgeville's water system had?
Ridgeville has 5 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2010. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 13 violations remain unresolved.
Is Ridgeville's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Ridgeville uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 32 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Ridgeville's water compare to other cities?
Ridgeville ranks #122 out of 196 cities in South Carolina (better than 38% of state cities) and #6588 out of 15744 cities nationally (58th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.