Apr 15, 2026 · 7 min read
PFAS "Forever Chemicals" in US Drinking Water: 2026 Update
PFAS contamination affects an estimated 200 million Americans. Here's what the latest EPA enforcement means for your tap water.
Drinking Water Contaminants
Comprehensive guide to 15 EPA-regulated contaminants in US drinking water — health effects, sources, and what to do.
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Chemical Contaminants
Inorganic and organic chemicals that can enter water from natural sources, industrial discharge, or plumbing.
Lead
EPA Limit: 0.015 mg/L (action level)
Developmental delays in children, kidney problems, and high blood pressure in adults.
Learn moreArsenic
EPA Limit: 0.01 mg/L
Increased risk of cancer (skin, bladder, lung), skin damage, and circulatory problems.
Learn moreNitrate
EPA Limit: 10 mg/L as nitrogen
Infants below 6 months who drink high-nitrate water can develop methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome).
Learn moreCopper
EPA Limit: 1.3 mg/L (action level)
Short-term: gastrointestinal distress. Long-term: liver or kidney damage.
Learn moreFluoride
EPA Limit: 4.0 mg/L
Bone disease (pain and tenderness) and dental fluorosis at high levels.
Learn moreAtrazine
EPA Limit: 0.003 mg/L
Cardiovascular system or reproductive problems with long-term exposure.
Learn morePFAS (PFOA & PFOS)
EPA Limit: 0.000004 mg/L (4 ppt)
Cancer, thyroid disruption, immune system effects, and reproductive harm.
Learn moreChromium (Total)
EPA Limit: 0.1 mg/L
Allergic dermatitis. Hexavalent chromium (Cr-6) is a known carcinogen.
Learn moreMercury (Inorganic)
EPA Limit: 0.002 mg/L
Kidney damage with short or long-term exposure.
Learn more🦠
Microbial Contaminants
Bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that can cause immediate health effects.
Coliform Bacteria
EPA Limit: 0 per 100 mL presence/absence
Indicates potential contamination by pathogens. Can cause gastrointestinal illness.
Learn moreE. Coli
EPA Limit: 0 per 100 mL presence/absence
Severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting. Can be life-threatening for vulnerable populations.
Learn more💧
Disinfection Byproducts
Chemicals formed when disinfectants like chlorine react with organic matter in water.
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Radiological Contaminants
Radioactive elements that occur naturally in some groundwater sources.
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