Reclaimed water recharge can help with water shortages, but it can also bring pollutants like nitrate and heavy metals into groundwater. Different recharge methods affect groundwater quality in different ways. Surface recharge can increase salt and nitrate levels, while well recharge may release arsenic. New contaminants are a big concern, and their risks are not fully understood. Pathogens from reclaimed water have lower risks, but some viruses can still pose a threat. To make reclaimed water recharge safer in China, steps need to be taken to reduce these risks.