PFAS in Washington, DC Drinking Water
PFAS data for Washington, District of Columbia · 671,768 residents · 274 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Washington, District of Columbia: the highest detected level is 0.007 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
At elevated levels, PFAS is a recognized health concern in drinking water; in Washington, District of Columbia, it has been detected in recent samples logged through federal compliance reporting.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in Washington Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Washington, District of Columbia drinking water at a maximum level of 0.007 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 671,768 residents across 274 ZIP codes in Washington.
Washington's overall water quality grade is C (69/100).
Is PFAS in Washington Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Washington water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.
If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filter can reduce pfas levels further.
PFAS Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | PFAS Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20032 | 17 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20001 | 15 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20003 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20002 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20004 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20005 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20006 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20007 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20008 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20009 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20010 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20011 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20012 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20013 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20015 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20016 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20017 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20018 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20019 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20020 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20022 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20024 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20026 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20027 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 20029 | 3 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| ...239 more ZIP codes |
Average pfas level across Washington: 3.11 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 Washington 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.