Exceeds EPA Limit PFAS EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

PFAS in Hilton Head Island, SC Drinking Water

PFAS data for Hilton Head Island, South Carolina · 50,264 residents · 4 ZIP codes

SDWIS federal records include PFAS detections tied to water systems serving Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

0.0052 ppt
Max Level Detected
11 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 Hilton Head Island Tap Water

PFAS has been detected in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0052 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).

This analysis covers 50,264 residents across 4 ZIP codes in Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island's overall water quality grade is B (83/100).

Is PFAS in Hilton Head Island Water Safe?

PFAS levels in parts of Hilton Head Island 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
29926 11 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit
29928 11 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit

Average pfas level across Hilton Head Island: 11 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 Hilton Head Island 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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