Exceeds EPA Limit PFAS EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

PFAS in Emmaus, PA Drinking Water

PFAS data for Emmaus, Pennsylvania · 14,000 residents · 3 ZIP codes

If you rely on a public water system in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, PFAS is a contaminant your utility has been required to test for — and EPA records show it has been detected at measurable levels, making it worth understanding as part of your tap water's detection record.

0.153 ppt
Max Level Detected
81 ppt
Average Level
4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually)
EPA MCL
High
Health Risk
Reverse Osmosis or Granular Activated Carbon
Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

PFAS in Emmaus Tap Water

PFAS has been detected in Emmaus, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 0.153 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).

This analysis covers 14,000 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Emmaus.

Emmaus's overall water quality grade is C (65/100).

Is PFAS in Emmaus Water Safe?

PFAS levels in parts of Emmaus exceed the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). The EPA requires water systems to take corrective action when this limit is exceeded.

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
18049 81 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit

Average pfas level across Emmaus: 81 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 Emmaus Water

  1. Install a reverse osmosis system (most effective — removes 90%+ of PFAS)
  2. Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters remove some PFAS compounds
  3. Look for NSF 53 or NSF 58 certification specifically tested for PFAS
  4. Pitcher filters with activated carbon provide partial reduction

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for pfas removal.

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