Exceeds EPA Limit PFAS EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

PFAS in Saranac Lake, NY Drinking Water

PFAS data for Saranac Lake, New York · 7,410 residents · 1 ZIP code

Routine testing in Saranac Lake, New York 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.

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: 2026-04-05

PFAS in Saranac Lake Tap Water

Saranac Lake, New York has 1 EPA violation related to pfas in drinking water.

This analysis covers 7,410 residents across 1 ZIP code in Saranac Lake.

Saranac Lake's overall water quality grade is A (94/100).

Is PFAS in Saranac Lake Water Safe?

PFAS levels in parts of Saranac Lake 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.

EPA Violations for PFAS in Saranac Lake

Date Violation Type Status ZIP Code
2022-07-01 PFOS (Resolved) Resolved 12983

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 Saranac Lake 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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