ZIP Code 35901
High RiskPFAS above EPA limits detected
4 compounds exceed EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels in water serving this ZIP code. Standard pitcher filters like Brita do not remove PFAS. See filter recommendations below.
Compounds Exceeding EPA Limits
What this means for you
One or more PFAS compounds were measured above the EPA's enforceable drinking water limit at a utility serving ZIP 35901. The EPA set these limits because long-term exposure at higher concentrations is associated with health effects including immune suppression, thyroid changes, and cancer risk increases. Standard pitcher filters (Brita, PUR) are not certified to remove PFAS. The most reliable at-home options are under-sink reverse osmosis systems or activated carbon block filters with an NSF/ANSI 58 certification specifically listing PFOA/PFOS reduction. Your water utility is required to bring levels into compliance by 2029 — filtering at the tap is the practical interim step if you'd like additional protection now.
GADSDEN WATER WORKS AND SEWER BOARD
AL0000577 High RiskPFAS Test Results
| Compound | Detected | vs. EPA Limit | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
PFOS Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid | 32.40ppt | 810% of limit
| 4 ppt | ⚠ Exceeds MCL |
PFOA Perfluorooctanoic acid | 32.00ppt | 800% of limit
| 4 ppt | ⚠ Exceeds MCL |
PFHxS Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid | 4.20ppt | 42% of limit
| 10 ppt | Below limit |
PFBS Perfluorobutane sulfonic acid | 155.40ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFPeA Perfluoropentanoic acid | 56.50ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFHxA Perfluorohexanoic acid | 34.90ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFBA Perfluorobutanoic acid | 19.10ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFHpA Perfluoroheptanoic acid | 11.70ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
NORTHEAST ETOWAH COUNTY WATER CO-OP
AL0000587 High RiskPFAS Test Results
| Compound | Detected | vs. EPA Limit | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
PFOA Perfluorooctanoic acid | 27.00ppt | 675% of limit
| 4 ppt | ⚠ Exceeds MCL |
PFOS Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid | 20.00ppt | 500% of limit
| 4 ppt | ⚠ Exceeds MCL |
PFHxS Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid | 3.00ppt | 30% of limit
| 10 ppt | Below limit |
PFBS Perfluorobutane sulfonic acid | 140.00ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFPeA Perfluoropentanoic acid | 50.00ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFHxA Perfluorohexanoic acid | 30.00ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFBA Perfluorobutanoic acid | 21.00ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
PFHpA Perfluoroheptanoic acid | 11.00ppt | No federal limit | — | Unregulated |
Values shown are the highest single-sample concentration measured at entry points to the distribution system. Results reflect water quality at the treatment plant — aging pipes, building plumbing, and on-site storage can affect what actually reaches your tap.