PFAS in Chapel Hill, NC Drinking Water
PFAS data for Chapel Hill, North Carolina · 107,660 residents · 5 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Chapel Hill, North Carolina: the highest detected level is 0.0048 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Across Chapel Hill, North Carolina, federal monitoring data has captured PFAS in water samples at detectable concentrations in the most recent available reporting cycle.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in Chapel Hill Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Chapel Hill, North Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0048 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 107,660 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Chapel Hill.
Chapel Hill's overall water quality grade is B (70/100).
Is PFAS in Chapel Hill Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Chapel Hill water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.
If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filter can reduce pfas levels further.
PFAS Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | PFAS Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27516 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 27517 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 27514 | 2 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 27599 | 2 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
Average pfas level across Chapel Hill: 4 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 Chapel Hill 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.