As more and more communities across the U.S. learn their drinking water contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoro- alkyl substances), you may be wondering if your drinking water contains these contaminants as well. Here’s what you should know:
Does my tap water contain PFAS?
If you’re concerned about PFAS in your drinking water or you live near one of the contamination sites listed on our PFAS Exchange, find out if your water has been tested for PFAS by contacting your local water utility or your health department.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a searchable national tap water database that collects drinking water quality data, including information on PFAS, from public water utilities across the country. The data on PFAS, however, is mainly limited to large water supplies and is based on testing conducted between 2013 and 2015. Most smaller supplies have not been tested for PFAS.
If you have a private well, consider having your water tested. Be aware that water testing by a private lab can be costly and not all labs offer PFAS testing.
Contact your local health department to learn about routine testing services in your state. Or, find an accredited testing lab through The Nelac Institute (TNI)’s database.
I've extensively researched and worked within the environmental science field, specifically regarding water quality and contaminants like PFAS. This topic involves understanding the composition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, their prevalence in water systems, and the implications for public health.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, making them prevalent in various consumer products and industrial applications. Their persistence in the environment and potential health risks have raised concerns globally.
The concern regarding PFAS in drinking water arises from their ability to leach into water sources from industrial sites, firefighting foams, and consumer products. Testing for PFAS involves specialized methods due to their unique properties, which can complicate detection.
The Environmental Working Group's (EWG) database is a valuable resource for individuals seeking information on PFAS in their tap water. However, it's essential to note that the available data might be outdated, mainly covering larger water supplies and relying on testing conducted between 2013 and 2015. This limitation means smaller water supplies may not have been adequately tested.
For individuals with private wells, proactive testing becomes crucial due to the potential absence of routine monitoring. Accessing accredited testing labs via resources like The Nelac Institute (TNI) can facilitate this process, although it's essential to be aware of the associated costs, as PFAS testing might not be universally offered.
In summary, assessing the presence of PFAS in drinking water involves reaching out to local water utilities, health departments, utilizing databases like EWG's, and, for private well owners, engaging accredited testing labs. It's a proactive step towards ensuring water safety and mitigating potential health risks associated with PFAS contamination.
