PFAS in North Charleston, SC Drinking Water
PFAS data for North Charleston, South Carolina · 26,076 residents · 5 ZIP codes
For residents of North Charleston, South Carolina, PFAS has appeared in public water supply sampling data.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
PFAS in North Charleston Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in North Charleston, South Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 6 ppt — 1.5x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 26,076 residents across 5 ZIP codes in North Charleston.
North Charleston's overall water quality grade is A (87/100).
Is PFAS in North Charleston Water Safe?
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29420 | 20 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29405 | 15 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29418 | 15 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29405 | 6 ppt | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 29405 | 3.8 ppt | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | OK |
Average pfas level across North Charleston: 11.96 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 North Charleston 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.