PFAS in South Bend, IN Drinking Water
PFAS data for South Bend, Indiana · 148,800 residents · 17 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in South Bend, Indiana: the highest detected level is 0.0397 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Recent water testing in South Bend, Indiana has returned PFAS readings above detection thresholds.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in South Bend Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in South Bend, Indiana drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0397 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 148,800 residents across 17 ZIP codes in South Bend.
South Bend's overall water quality grade is C (61/100).
Is PFAS in South Bend 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46635 | 30 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46601 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46613 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46614 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46615 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46616 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46617 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46619 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46624 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46628 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46634 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46637 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46660 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 46680 | 24 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
Average pfas level across South Bend: 24.43 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 South Bend 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.