PFAS in Acton, MA Drinking Water
PFAS data for Acton, Massachusetts · 21,023 residents · 1 ZIP code
Federal water monitoring extends to thousands of public water systems, and in Acton, Massachusetts, that tracking has turned up PFAS — the detection is logged in the EPA compliance record and reflects samples collected under routine Safe Drinking Water Act reporting requirements.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
PFAS in Acton Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Acton, Massachusetts drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0206 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 21,023 residents across 1 ZIP code in Acton.
Acton's overall water quality grade is C (64/100).
Is PFAS in Acton Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
PFAS Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | PFAS Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01720 | 71 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
Average pfas level across Acton: 71 ppt
Health Effects of PFAS
- Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease and immune system suppression
- Reproductive problems and reduced fertility
- Elevated cholesterol and liver effects
- Developmental effects in infants and children
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (2024).
How PFAS Gets Into Drinking Water
- Firefighting foam (AFFF) used at military bases and airports
- Industrial manufacturing (non-stick coatings, stain-resistant fabrics)
- Wastewater treatment plants that receive industrial discharge
- Landfill leachate from PFAS-containing consumer products
What to Do About PFAS in Acton Water
- Install a reverse osmosis system (most effective — removes 90%+ of PFAS)
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters remove some PFAS compounds
- Look for NSF 53 or NSF 58 certification specifically tested for PFAS
- Pitcher filters with activated carbon provide partial reduction
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for pfas removal.