PFOS in Drinking Water

Reference information plus historical EPA compliance records associated with pfos.

EPA Limit (MCL)

4 ppt

EPA Goal (MCLG)

0 ppt

Category

PFAS

Regulatory values are a concise reference, not legal or medical advice. Confirm the current standard and rule-specific details on EPA.gov.

Health Effects

Thyroid disease, immune effects, increased cancer risk

Common Sources

Industrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF)

Treatment Considerations for PFOS

Commonly cited treatment approaches include: Reverse osmosis, activated carbon, ion exchange. Choose treatment only after a certified water test identifies the substance and concentration; verify NSF/ANSI certification and consult a qualified local professional when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PFOS and why can it appear in drinking-water records?

PFOS can be associated with drinking water through: Industrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF).

What reference value does this page show?

The summarized EPA Maximum Contaminant Level is 4 ppt. Some substances use action levels or rule-specific thresholds instead, so verify the current EPA standard.

Does a historical violation record mean it is in my tap today?

No. A compliance record may be historical or resolved. Use the latest Consumer Confidence Report or a certified test for current local conditions.