PFAS in Salem, MA Drinking Water
PFAS data for Salem, Massachusetts · 44,115 residents · 1 ZIP code
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Salem, Massachusetts: PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Across Salem, Massachusetts, federal monitoring data has captured PFAS in water samples at detectable concentrations in the most recent available reporting cycle.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO
PFAS in Salem Tap Water
This analysis covers 44,115 residents across 1 ZIP code in Salem.
Is PFAS in Salem Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Salem 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 Salem 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.