Facts About PFAS
Fairfax Water's Commitment to Water Quality and Our Community
PFAS Overview
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of over 10,000 human-made chemicals. They've been used in many industrial applications and consumer products since the 1940s because of their unique properties to repel water, oil, and stains.
Why Are PFAS a Concern?
PFAS are often called "forever chemicals" because they are very persistent in the environment and in the human body – they don’t break down easily and can accumulate over time. People can be exposed to PFAS from various sources, including food, consumer products, and drinking water. Drinking water is estimated to account for about 20% of total PFAS exposure for most people, but this can vary.
Understanding Parts Per Trillion (ppt)
Understanding PFAS regulations means understanding just how small the allowable amounts are. The EPA now measures PFAS in parts per trillion (ppt)—a unit so small it's hard to imagine. This graphic helps put it in perspective: one part per trillion is like a single drop of water in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Regulations and Our Stance
On April 10, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for six PFAS; here was our statement at the time. Fairfax Water is committed to meeting these new standards by the compliance date of 2029. Removing PFAS at their source is crucial for ensuring high-quality water at affordable rates.
Our Water Quality Data
Our team of highly trained professionals conducts water quality testing daily, weekly, monthly, and annually to monitor bacteria, viruses, and contaminants, including PFAS. Each year, we mail customers a postcard linking to our detailed Water Quality Report, also available online.
Since 2021, Fairfax Water has been proactively monitoring for PFAS in our water sources and transparently sharing this data.
- Potomac River Source (Corbalis Treatment Plant & Washington Aqueduct): Finished water from our Potomac River sources consistently shows PFAS levels below the EPA’s new MCL of 4.0 ppt, often at non-detectable levels.
- Occoquan Reservoir Source (Griffith Treatment Plant): Some samples have slightly exceeded the MCL for PFOA and PFOS, but all other regulated PFAS are within acceptable limits.
Fairfax Water is evaluating treatment processes to ensure compliance by 2029. For a detailed report of our PFAS data, click here (Updated Dec. 2025).
Fairfax Water's Action Plan
Fairfax Water did not create PFAS, but it is our responsibility to ensure that your drinking water meets all federal health and safety standards. We are taking bold, immediate action.
Key Actions:
- Advanced Treatment: Planning for technologies like Granular Activated Carbon or Ion Exchange to remove PFAS.
- Source Water Protection: Funding studies and participating in regional watershed analyses.
- Legal Action: Suing PFAS manufacturers to hold them accountable and help offset treatment costs.
- Advocacy and Research: Supporting legislation and engaging in national PFAS research.
Did You Know?
Treatment systems can capture PFAS in filters, but do not destroy the chemicals. These filters must be safely disposed of. The most effective solution is to stop PFAS at their source.
Community Impact and Rate Commitment
Fairfax Water is a not-for-profit public utility funded solely by customer rates. PFAS treatment improvements may impact rates in the future. We are committed to transparency in our rate-setting process and helping those needing assistance.
Even with these improvements, our rates are projected to remain among the lowest in the region. You will still receive high-quality water for about a penny per gallon.
How You Can Help Reduce PFAS Exposure
- Be an Informed Consumer: Avoid products that contain PFAS.
- Support Source Reduction: Advocate for legislation that reduces or eliminates PFAS.
- Use Home Filters Wisely: Use only filters certified to reduce PFAS and maintain them as recommended.
About Fairfax Water
Fairfax Water is the largest water utility in Virginia, serving nearly two million people. We operate two major treatment plants and provide about 170 million gallons of safe, affordable drinking water every day.
Our mission is to provide reliable and abundant water of exceptional quality at a reasonable price.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What are PFAS and why are they called "forever chemicals"?
PFAS are a group of more than 10,000 chemicals used in consumer and industrial products. They are called "forever chemicals" because they break down very slowly and can remain in the environment and human body for a long time.
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Is PFAS in my drinking water dangerous?
Long-term exposure to some PFAS may cause health risks, including liver damage, increased cholesterol, weakened immunity, and certain cancers. Drinking water accounts for about 20% of overall PFAS exposure.
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How often does Fairfax Water test for contaminants like PFAS?
Fairfax Water conducts daily, weekly, monthly, and annual testing for a wide range of contaminants. We share results annually in our Water Quality Report and online.
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What is Fairfax Water doing to remove PFAS?
We are researching new treatment systems and will meet the 2029 EPA deadline. We are also protecting source waters, supporting legislation, and suing manufacturers responsible for PFAS pollution.
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Does PFAS treatment eliminate these chemicals?
No. Treatment systems capture PFAS on filters, which then must be properly disposed of. The chemicals are not destroyed.
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Will my water rates increase because of PFAS?
Rates may increase to cover the cost of required upgrades. However, Fairfax Water remains one of the most affordable utilities in the region.
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How can I reduce my exposure to PFAS?
Avoid PFAS-containing products (like non-stick cookware or stain-resistant fabrics), support source-reduction policies, and use properly certified home filters.
Additional Resources
EPA’s PFAS Information: https://www.epa.gov/pfas
Virginia Department of Health: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinking-water/pfas/
American Water Works Association (AWWA): https://drinktap.org/Water-Info/Whats-in-My-Water/Per-and-Polyfluoroalkyl-Substances
Water Research Foundation’s PFAS Cycles Brochure: https://www.fairfaxwater.org/sites/default/files/water_supply/PFAS-cycles-brochure-WRF.pdf
Northern Virginia Regional Commission’s PFAS 101: https://www.fairfaxwater.org/sites/default/files/water_supply/NVRC%20PFAS%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf