A laboratory test report for PFAS in the New Haven County water system managed by the Regional Water Authority provides numerical values for several per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The report lists detected concentrations for compounds such as PFOA and PFOS, measured in micrograms per liter (µg/L), alongside federal maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) set for 2024. These numbers describe the system's source water and distribution, not an individual home’s water.
Myth: PFAS levels remain constant throughout the year in New Haven County
Federal sampling from September 2023 to June 2024 shows that PFAS concentrations can vary over months and seasons. For instance, PFOA and PFOS were detected in multiple samples with highest values recorded at 0.0071 µg/L and 0.0107 µg/L respectively, across 30 sampling events. Some detections exceeded the forthcoming federal MCL of 4.0 nanograms per liter (ng/L; 1 µg/L = 1000 ng/L). However, these fluctuations do not imply that PFAS concentrations change unpredictably every day but highlight the importance of multi-month monitoring to capture variation.
Myth: Public water system PFAS data directly reflects private well water quality
The Regional Water Authority’s data covers surface water sources supplying approximately 418,900 people through over 115,000 service connections across multiple towns in New Haven County. This data does not measure private wells or home plumbing. Wells may exhibit different PFAS levels due to varied contamination sources and geological differences. To know a private well's PFAS content, independent laboratory testing of that specific water is necessary.
Myth: Household size and usage do not affect PFAS treatment considerations
Larger households or properties used seasonally may require tailored filtration capacity because water use influences filter lifespan and maintenance frequency. Water treatment systems designed for PFAS removal, such as the C-Series PFAS Forever Chemicals Filter, are configured to handle different daily volumes. Homeowners weighing treatment options should consider typical water consumption patterns and the potential impact of fluctuating PFAS levels observed in the regional system’s record.
Myth: Testing my home water is the first step before addressing PFAS
Cost-effective steps precede laboratory testing. Homeowners can first review their public water system’s most recent PFAS monitoring results available from EPA reports. Confirming no health-based violations have been recorded helps set context. Subsequently, verifying household water use and identifying any specific fixtures or appliances affected by PFAS-related aesthetic or functional issues can guide whether comprehensive testing is needed. If testing proceeds, certified labs use precise methods targeting the PFAS compounds found in the regional record.
Myth: All household water fixtures are equally impacted by PFAS
PFAS compounds dissolve uniformly in water; however, their impact on household fixtures depends on usage points. Drinking and cooking water are primary concerns, as ingestion is the main exposure route. Showers and laundry typically involve less risk, though some residents may prefer whole-house treatment for peace of mind. Systems designed for PFAS reduction, like the C-Series System, prioritize removing these compounds at points of consumption while considering household water flow and pressure needs.
The Regional Water Authority in New Haven County uses surface water sources and supplies 418,900 residents, with federal monitoring data from 2023-2024 documenting PFAS detections at various concentrations but no health-based violations. For detailed results, the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) public water system record provides authoritative information.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2024-06-11. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR5 monitoring (2023-2025) for REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (CT0930011), CT: 300 results across 10 listed contaminants, 15 detections above the reporting level; 8 results above a 2024 federal MCL