Date: December 16, 2020

Road Salt and Your Drinking Water

New Jersey American Water customers may temporarily notice a slight salty taste to the water due to run off containing salt which is being used to melt snow and ice. 

Excessive use of salt and brine by transportation officials during winter weather increases the sodium chloride content in the source water used to generate drinking water and can impart a salty taste. These impacts are typically short lived and diminish once road salt applications and associated runoff from snow melt has ceased.

The water continues to meet all health-based primary drinking water standards and the higher concentrations of sodium and chloride that we experience during snow events do not pose a health concern for most individuals in comparison to other sources of sodium in an average person’s diet. However, customers with health concern, and those on a sodium-restricted diet, may want to contact their healthcare provider if they have questions.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

Location: Statewide

Issued: 12/16/2020

Contact: Customer Service Center

Contact Phone: 1-800-272-1325