Detected PFAS

PFAS in Washington Navy Yard, DC Drinking Water

PFAS data for Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia · 632,323 residents · 5 ZIP codes

At elevated levels, PFAS is a recognized health concern in drinking water; in Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia, it has been detected in recent samples logged through federal compliance reporting.

0.0047 ppt
Max Level Detected
3.6 ppt
Average Level
4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually)
EPA MCL
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 Washington Navy Yard Tap Water

PFAS has been detected in Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0047 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).

This analysis covers 632,323 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Washington Navy Yard.

Washington Navy Yard's overall water quality grade is D (50/100).

Is PFAS in Washington Navy Yard Water Safe?

PFAS was detected in Washington Navy Yard 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
20374 6 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) Exceeds limit
20376 3 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) OK
20388 3 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) OK
20391 3 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) OK
20398 3 detections 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) OK

Average pfas level across Washington Navy Yard: 3.6 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 Navy Yard 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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