PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have become a growing concern for communities across the United States, including the Bay Area. Known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment, PFAS are linked to serious health risks such as cancer, hormonal disruptions, and immune system impairments. With the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) setting stricter drinking water standards to address these contaminants, many Bay Area residents are left wondering: Are PFAS levels in their water supply exceeding these new limits?

In this post, we’ll explore the impact of PFAS contamination on Bay Area water systems, unpack the new EPA drinking water standards, and provide actionable steps to ensure your water meets safety requirements. Understanding the risks and available solutions is crucial for protecting your health and that of your family.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals widely used since the 1940s in products that resist water, grease, and stains. These chemicals are found in everyday items like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foam. While their durability and versatility made them popular in manufacturing, these same properties make PFAS incredibly persistent in the environment and in the human body—earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

How PFAS Enter the Water Supply

PFAS contamination typically occurs when these chemicals leach into the soil and groundwater from industrial sites, landfills, or areas where firefighting foam was used extensively. Over time, they accumulate in water supplies, including private wells and municipal systems. Because PFAS are not naturally broken down, they can remain in the environment for decades, continually exposing humans and wildlife.

Health Risks Associated with PFAS

PFAS exposure has been linked to several serious health issues, even at low levels, triggering the new EPA drinking water standards:

  • Cancer: Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers.
  • Hormonal Disruption: Interference with thyroid and reproductive hormones.
  • Immune System Impairment: Reduced vaccine effectiveness and increased susceptibility to infections.
  • Developmental Issues: Potential harm to fetal growth and child development.
  • Cholesterol Levels: Elevated cholesterol levels leading to cardiovascular risks.

Why PFAS Are Difficult to Remove

Traditional water treatment methods are often ineffective at removing PFAS. Their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them resistant to breakdown by natural or chemical processes. As a result, specialized filtration methods, such as reverse osmosis and activated carbon, are required to effectively reduce PFAS levels in drinking water.

With their persistence and potential for harm, PFAS represent a significant challenge for maintaining safe drinking water. Recognizing the dangers, the EPA has updated its drinking water standards to address these contaminants and protect public health. 

Understanding the New EPA Drinking Water Standards

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently introduced updated drinking water standards aimed at addressing the growing concern over PFAS contamination. These new standards reflect the latest scientific research on the health risks associated with PFAS, particularly their long-term effects on vulnerable populations. 

The New PFAS Limits

The updated EPA drinking water standards set stricter limits on the acceptable levels of two of the most common and studied PFAS compounds: PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid). 

The new guidance establishes the following:

  • PFOA: Limited to 4 parts per trillion (ppt).
  • PFOS: Limited to 4 parts per trillion (ppt).

This is a significant reduction compared to previous advisory levels, which were set at 70 ppt for combined PFOA and PFOS. The stricter thresholds reflect growing evidence that even low levels of these chemicals can pose health risks.

PFAS Contamination in Bay Area Water

Recent testing has identified PFAS contamination in multiple regions across the Bay Area, with some water systems reporting levels above the newly established EPA drinking water standards. Communities near industrial sites, airports, and military bases—where PFAS are frequently used—are particularly at risk. Cities with older infrastructure and those relying on groundwater sources are also more vulnerable, as these systems often lack the advanced filtration needed to remove PFAS effectively.

Local Efforts to Address PFAS

Bay Area municipalities are actively working to comply with the EPA’s updated standards. According to the Regional Water Board they are coordinating “with the State Water Board’s Division of Drinking Water and local water agencies to focus on identifying, investigating, and cleaning up PFAS sources that could impact drinking water or aquatic habitat.”

How PFAS Affect Bay Area Residents

For those living in areas with known contamination, the presence of PFAS in drinking water raises concerns about long-term health risks. Even low levels of PFAS exposure have been linked to cancer, hormonal disruptions, immune system impairments, and developmental issues in children. As residents grow more aware of the risks, there is increasing demand for transparency, testing, and treatment solutions from local water providers.

Steps Bay Area Residents Can Take

Residents concerned about PFAS contamination in their water should take proactive steps to protect themselves:

  1. Check Your Local Water Report: Many water utilities publish annual water quality reports that include PFAS levels.
  2. Test Your Water: Use a home testing kit or professional service to determine PFAS levels in your water supply.
  3. Install Filtration Systems: Consider using reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters, which are proven to reduce PFAS effectively.

PFAS contamination in Bay Area water highlights the urgent need for continued monitoring and investment in advanced water treatment solutions. By staying informed and taking action, residents can help ensure that their water meets the highest safety standards.

Get Your Water Tested for Free and Find Out If It Meets EPA Drinking Standards

PFAS contamination is a serious concern, and the updated EPA drinking water standards highlight the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of your household’s water. Whether your water comes from a municipal system or a private well, understanding the levels of PFAS and other contaminants is the first step toward protecting your family’s health. From installing advanced filtration systems to advocating for community-wide improvements, there are effective solutions to address elevated PFAS levels.

Not sure about the quality of your water? Schedule a free water test with AAA Water Systems today. Our experts will analyze your water and recommend the best solutions to ensure it meets EPA standards, providing you with peace of mind and access to clean, safe drinking water. Contact us now to take the first step toward healthier water for your home.

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