Where Does Agawam's Water Come From?
Water Source
Springfield Water & Sewer Commission (SWSC)
Agawam receives its drinking water from the Springfield Water & Sewer Commission, drawing from the Cobble Mountain Reservoir system. As a downstream customer, Agawam's water quality is directly tied to Springfield's treatment processes and distribution network.
What's in Agawam's Water?
Based on water quality reports, testing data, and environmental assessments, these are the contaminants of concern for Agawam residents:
HAA5 (Haloacetic Acids)
Status: Elevated via Springfield supply
As a Springfield water customer, Agawam receives water with the same elevated HAA5 levels that have caused violations in Longmeadow. Distribution distance can increase byproduct formation.
TTHM (Trihalomethanes)
Status: Detected — Springfield system
Trihalomethanes accompany HAA5 as chlorine disinfection byproducts. Levels increase with water age in the distribution system.
Lead
Status: Risk in older Feeding Hills homes
Agawam's Feeding Hills neighborhood has older housing stock with potential lead service lines and lead solder. Homes built before 1986 are at highest risk.
Chromium-6
Status: Detected above EWG guidelines
Hexavalent chromium has been detected in the Springfield water supply at levels above EWG health guidelines, though below federal limits.
Health Risks for Agawam Residents
According to the EPA and Environmental Working Group (EWG), prolonged exposure to contaminants found in Agawam's water may increase risk of:
- • Cancer: HAA5, TTHM, and Chromium-6 are all associated with increased cancer risk
- • Organ Damage: Long-term exposure to disinfection byproducts can affect liver and kidney function
- • Developmental Concerns: Pregnant women and children are most vulnerable to lead and chemical exposure
📍 Agawam Local Tip
Agawam residents in the Feeding Hills area — your neighborhood has some of the oldest homes in town. If your house was built before 1960, it's worth getting your water tested at the tap. The town's DPW can help you determine if your service line is lead.
Also check water quality for nearby towns: Springfield · West Springfield · Longmeadow
The Solution: Reverse Osmosis Filtration
Standard pitcher filters (like Brita) are not effective at removing HAA5 or most contaminants found in Agawam's water. Water quality experts recommend a Reverse Osmosis (RO) system that can remove up to 99% of dissolved contaminants.
Why RO Works for Agawam Water:
- ✓ Removes 99%+ of HAA5, TTHM, Lead
- ✓ Uses semi-permeable membrane to filter at molecular level
- ✓ Fits under your kitchen sink — no major renovation needed
- ✓ Provides clean drinking and cooking water on demand
- ✓ NSF-certified systems are independently tested and verified
Top Recommended RO Systems for Agawam
APEC ROES-50
A reliable, no-frills workhorse — perfect for Agawam families on a budget.
- • 5-Stage filtration system
- • Removes up to 99% of contaminants including HAA5
- • Industry-standard parts (easy, affordable replacements)
- • Excellent long-term track record with thousands of reviews
iSpring RCC7AK
Best for taste — adds healthy minerals back after filtering Agawam's water.
- • 6-Stage with alkaline remineralization
- • Water tastes like natural spring water
- • See-through housing shows filter condition
- • Top-rated by Agawam area homeowners
Waterdrop G3P800
The modern, space-saving tankless choice for Agawam homes.
- • Tankless design saves cabinet space
- • 800 GPD flow rate (fills a cup in seconds)
- • Smart faucet displays real-time water quality
- • Easy twist-and-pull filter changes — no plumber needed
Ready to Install?
Step-by-step DIY installation guide — works for any Agawam home
View Installation Guide →Frequently Asked Questions — Agawam Water
Is Agawam MA water safe to drink?
Agawam water meets most federal standards, but shares Springfield's elevated HAA5 and disinfection byproduct concerns. While not currently in violation, the same water quality issues affecting Longmeadow apply to Agawam as well.
Where does Agawam get its water?
Agawam purchases water from the Springfield Water & Sewer Commission, which draws from the Cobble Mountain Reservoir in the Berkshire foothills. This is the same source that supplies Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, and other area towns.
Does Agawam have lead in the water?
Lead can enter water through household plumbing. Homes in Agawam built before 1986 may have lead solder, and older homes may have lead service lines. The town is conducting an inventory as required by EPA regulations.
What water filter do Agawam residents need?
A reverse osmosis system is recommended to address the combination of HAA5, lead risk, and Chromium-6. RO removes 99%+ of dissolved contaminants and is the most comprehensive home water treatment option.
Sources
- • Agawam Water Department / Springfield Water & Sewer Commission Report (2024)
- • Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database
- • Massachusetts DEP Drinking Water Standards
- • EPA Disinfection Byproduct Regulations