PFAS in Gaithersburg, MD Drinking Water
PFAS data for Gaithersburg, Maryland · 144,191 residents · 5 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Gaithersburg, Maryland: PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Recent water testing in Gaithersburg, Maryland has returned PFAS readings above detection thresholds.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO
PFAS in Gaithersburg Tap Water
This analysis covers 144,191 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Gaithersburg.
Is PFAS in Gaithersburg Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Gaithersburg water, but the available unit could not be normalized to the EPA MCL. ZipCheckup therefore cannot classify the result as within or above the federal limit.
Check the source utility record and consider independent testing before making a safety decision.
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 Gaithersburg 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.