Changes for Different Household Types
Large households experience faster accumulation of acidic effects due to higher water usage
Second homes or seasonal properties might see corrosion progression during inactivity
Infrequent water use can increase metal leaching in low-pH conditions
Role of Plumbing Material and Age
Older plumbing materials may show more visible staining or wear influenced by acidity
Plastic pipes react differently than metal pipes to acidic water but still require consideration
Aquifer water pH is independent of internal plumbing but influences corrosion risk
Fixtures, Appliances, and Processes Affected First
Fixtures with metal components may develop discoloration faster in acidic conditions
Water heaters might experience increased corrosion, impacting longevity and efficiency
Dishwashers and espresso machines can show scale or performance issues linked to water pH
Sample Size and Data Strength Behind pH Figures
Data from 47 samples across 6 wells in Burlington County's aquifer 211EGLS represent regional conditions
Samples range in depth from 12 to 635 feet, showing variability in pH
Most samples (41 of 47) are below EPA's secondary aesthetic standard lower limit of 6.5, indicating acidic tendencies
Household Symptoms Indicating or Excluding Acidic Water
Signs such as unusual metal taste or surface staining on fixtures may be related to low pH water
Skin irritation or health concerns are not indicated by pH levels alone without specific testing
Cloudy water or sediment generally points to other water quality issues, not acidity
Understanding Aesthetic Secondary Standards Versus Health-Based Limits
EPA’s pH standard for aesthetics ranges from 6.5 to 8.5, focusing on taste and corrosivity, not health risks
Acidic water below 6.5 pH can cause plumbing wear and taste changes but is not a violation or health hazard by itself
Household water tests are necessary to determine specific water chemistry and appropriate corrective action
The data from groundwater sampling in Burlington County’s aquifer 211EGLS shows a median pH of 5.4 standard units with values ranging from 3.9 to 9.0. Most results fall below the EPA secondary standard lower limit of 6.5, indicating acidic water conditions are common in the region. However, this data reflects area-wide measurements from six different wells at various depths and does not establish the pH of any individual household’s water. To understand your own water’s condition, a certified laboratory pH test of your well or supply is essential.
Symptoms such as faster-than-expected corrosion in plumbing and appliances, unusual tastes, or staining can suggest low-pH water, but these also depend on household factors including plumbing materials and water usage patterns. The Fleck Acidic / Low-pH Water Filter ships ready to configure and can help households address acidic water challenges when properly matched to their water characteristics. This system is designed to improve water pH balance, reducing aesthetic impacts and extending the life of plumbing and fixtures.
It is important not to interpret the regional data as a direct indication that your own water is acidic or problematic. Testing is the only way to confirm water pH at your site. Also, while the EPA secondary standard guides aesthetic and corrosivity considerations, it does not reflect health safety limits. Managing acidic water focuses on protecting household infrastructure and comfort rather than health risk mitigation. Using regional sampling data helps households understand the potential for low pH in their area but should always be supplemented by local water analysis for accurate and tailored solutions.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2026-08-18. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.
On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of pH in the 211EGLS aquifer (Burlington County): 47 results from 6 wells, median 5.4 standard units, range 3.9-9.0 standard units; EPA secondary standard for pH is 6.5-8.5 (aesthetic/corrosivity, not health-based); 41 of 47 sampled results fell below 6.5
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