How UCMR5 Monitoring Differs From UCMR3 in Compounds and Detection Levels
Expanded List of PFAS Analyzed
The most recent federal monitoring cycle under UCMR5 included nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), compared to a smaller subset under UCMR3. This broadened scope covers newer fluorinated compounds beyond PFOA and PFOS, integrating measurements of PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, PFBS, PFHxA, PFPeA, PFBA, and PFHpA.
Lower Detection Thresholds
UCMR5 uses more sensitive reporting levels, often in the parts per trillion range (nanograms per liter), enabling the capture of even trace presence of these 'forever chemicals' in water supplies.
Reading Cordova’s Water System PFAS Data as a Homeowner
Median and Range in Sampling Results
For Cordova City Water, all major long-chain PFAS such as PFOA and PFOS were not detected above reporting levels across 11 samples. One detection of PFBA was recorded at a highest value of 0.0371 µg/L (37.1 parts per billion), well below federal health benchmarks.
Implications of the Data Range
Detected concentrations include any measurement above the system’s reporting limits but are not violations or safety exceedances. They indicate presence and distribution in the public water system, not that individual homes necessarily have these levels.
Understanding Nanograms per Liter and Reporting Precision
Units Explained
The units commonly reported for PFAS are nanograms per liter (ng/L), identical to parts per trillion (ppt). This precision allows measurement of chemicals at extremely low concentrations in drinking water.
Significance of Four Decimal Places
Reporting to four decimal places ensures detection near or below federal maximum contaminant levels (MCLs), such as the 4.0 ng/L MCL for PFOA and PFOS set to begin in 2024. This level of detail supports accurate risk assessment and treatment decision-making.
Key Information to Gather Before Seeking Treatment Advice
Have Your Water Test Results Ready
Individual homes should obtain laboratory testing of their own water supply for specific PFAS compounds to understand actual exposure, independent of public system data.
Note Your Household Water Usage
Knowing daily water demand helps determine the capacity needed for any PFAS treatment solution.
Consider the Types of PFAS Present
Understanding which perfluoroalkyl substances appear in your water helps select appropriate filtration technology.
Clarifying Terms in the Sampling Record
What 'Detected' Means
Detected simply indicates the chemical was measured above the instrument's threshold, not that it violates any health standard.
Median and Range Definitions
The median is the midpoint value among samples, while the range represents the spread from lowest to highest detected amounts recorded in the survey period.
Why These Matter
These statistical measures describe overall system water quality trends but don’t substitute for individual well or tap testing.
Choosing Treatment with the Autotrol PFAS Forever Chemicals Filter
Based on your test results and household water use, the Autotrol PFAS Forever Chemicals Filter offers technology designed specifically for removing a broad range of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. This system ships ready to configure and supports targeting the specific demand your household has measured, helping reduce exposure to these fluorinated compounds known as 'forever chemicals'.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2024-12-30. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR5 monitoring (2023-2025) for CORDOVA CITY WATER (AK2293205), AK: 110 results across 10 listed contaminants, 1 detections above the reporting level; compared with the applicable federal MCL, none above
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