Exceeds EPA Limit PFAS EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

PFAS in Riverhead, NY Drinking Water

PFAS data for Riverhead, New York · 35,115 residents · 1 ZIP code

If you rely on a public water system in Riverhead, New York, PFAS is a contaminant your utility has been required to test for — and EPA records show it has been detected at measurable levels, making it worth understanding as part of your tap water's detection record.

0.0435 ppt
Max Level Detected
175 ppt
Average Level
4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually)
EPA MCL
1
EPA Violations
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 Riverhead Tap Water

PFAS has been detected in Riverhead, New York drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0435 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).

This analysis covers 35,115 residents across 1 ZIP code in Riverhead.

Riverhead's overall water quality grade is B (75/100).

Is PFAS in Riverhead Water Safe?

PFAS levels in parts of Riverhead 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
11901 175 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit

Average pfas level across Riverhead: 175 ppt

EPA Violations for PFAS in Riverhead

Date Violation Type Status ZIP Code
2024-07-01 PFOA (Known) Known 11901

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 Riverhead 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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