PFAS in Columbia, SC Drinking Water
PFAS data for Columbia, South Carolina · 323,067 residents · 34 ZIP codes
Routine testing in Columbia, South Carolina turned up PFAS — samples from the public supply came back positive, placing this contaminant on the list of substances residents here have a concrete reason to look into.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
PFAS in Columbia Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Columbia, South Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0095 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 323,067 residents across 34 ZIP codes in Columbia.
Columbia's overall water quality grade is A (88/100).
Is PFAS in Columbia 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29201 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29203 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29204 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29205 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29206 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29209 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29210 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29212 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29223 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29229 | 38 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29207 | 23 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
Average pfas level across Columbia: 36.64 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 Columbia 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.