PFAS in Knoxville, TN Drinking Water
PFAS data for Knoxville, Tennessee · 442,846 residents · 31 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Knoxville, Tennessee: the highest detected level is 0.0064 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Routine testing in Knoxville, Tennessee turned up PFAS - samples from the public supply came back positive, placing this contaminant on the list of substances residents here have a concrete reason to look into.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in Knoxville Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Knoxville, Tennessee drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0064 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 442,846 residents across 31 ZIP codes in Knoxville.
Knoxville's overall water quality grade is C (66/100).
Is PFAS in Knoxville Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Knoxville 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37922 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37934 | 4 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37902 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37921 | 2 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37909 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37912 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37914 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37915 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37916 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37917 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37918 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37919 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37920 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37923 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37924 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 37931 | 1 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
Average pfas level across Knoxville: 1.63 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 Knoxville 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.