Why Well Water Testing Matters
Private wells are not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act, which means the PFAS testing and treatment requirements that apply to municipal water systems do not extend to households relying on private wells. An estimated 43 million Americans drink from private wells, and well water PFAS contamination is a significant and often undetected problem in communities near military bases, industrial facilities, firefighter training areas, and airports.
How to Get Your Well Tested
PFAS testing requires laboratory analysis — it cannot be detected by smell, taste, or appearance. State health departments often maintain lists of certified laboratories that can perform PFAS testing. The EPA’s most comprehensive test method is EPA Method 533, which detects a broad range of PFAS compounds including newer short-chain variants. Some states offer subsidized or free PFAS testing for private well owners, particularly in known contamination areas.
Interpreting Your Results
PFAS results are reported in parts per trillion (ppt) or nanograms per liter (ng/L), equivalent measurements. The EPA’s 2024 maximum contaminant levels establish 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS individually and 10 ppt for PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (GenX). A hazard index calculation applies to mixtures of these compounds. Well water exceeding these levels warrants treatment before use for drinking and cooking.
Recommended Treatment for Affected Wells
Point-of-use reverse osmosis systems installed at the kitchen tap or point-of-entry granular activated carbon systems treating all household water are the two most common approaches for PFAS-contaminated well water. Both technologies have demonstrated effectiveness but differ in cost, installation complexity, and maintenance requirements. Reverse osmosis produces reject water requiring disposal; activated carbon media requires periodic replacement when breakthrough occurs.