PFAS in Denver, CO Drinking Water
PFAS data for Denver, Colorado · 1,108,441 residents · 69 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Denver, Colorado: the highest detected level is 3 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Water quality records for Denver, Colorado show PFAS detections on file - a finding that places it among the contaminants worth tracking for this area.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in Denver Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Denver, Colorado drinking water at a maximum level of 3 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 1,108,441 residents across 69 ZIP codes in Denver.
Denver's overall water quality grade is C (66/100).
Is PFAS in Denver Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Denver 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80221 | 35 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 80229 | 35 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 80233 | 35 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 80260 | 35 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 80233 | 3 ppt | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 80234 | 3 ppt | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 80260 | 3 ppt | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
| 80215 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 80228 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
Average pfas level across Denver: 17.22 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 Denver 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.