Exceeds EPA Limit PFAS EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

PFAS in Fort Payne, AL Drinking Water

PFAS data for Fort Payne, Alabama · 72,177 residents · 2 ZIP codes

Because PFAS is associated with health effects at sustained elevated exposures, residents in Fort Payne, Alabama may find it useful that local water systems have returned detectable concentrations — facts that bear on long-term household water decisions.

0.0119 ppt
Max Level Detected
31.5 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 Fort Payne Tap Water

PFAS has been detected in Fort Payne, Alabama drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0119 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).

This analysis covers 72,177 residents across 2 ZIP codes in Fort Payne.

Fort Payne's overall water quality grade is B (83/100).

Is PFAS in Fort Payne Water Safe?

PFAS levels in parts of Fort Payne 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
35967 34 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit
35968 29 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit

Average pfas level across Fort Payne: 31.5 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 Fort Payne 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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