Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, have become one of the most discussed topics in water quality over the past decade. Often called "forever chemicals" because of their extraordinary resistance to breaking down in the environment, PFAS have been detected in water supplies across the United States, including in several Colorado communities. Understanding what these chemicals are and how they relate to your drinking water is an important part of being an informed consumer.
Blog
PFAS in Drinking Water: The Forever Chemical Explained
A factual look at what PFAS are, why they persist in water supplies, and what the latest science and regulation say.
Get Our Free Water Quality Guide
Learn what every Colorado household should know about emerging contaminants and water quality.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a large family of synthetic chemicals manufactured and used in a wide range of industrial and consumer products since the 1940s. The defining characteristic is the carbon-fluorine bond, one of the strongest in organic chemistry, making PFAS extremely stable and resistant to heat, water, grease, and degradation.
These properties made them valuable in nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, food packaging, firefighting foams, and stain-resistant fabrics. However, the same durability means they persist in the environment for extremely long periods and do not naturally break down through sunlight, water, or microbial activity.
How PFAS Enter Drinking Water
Firefighting Foam (AFFF)
Aqueous film-forming foams containing PFAS have been used extensively at military bases, airports, and fire training facilities. When applied during exercises or emergencies, these foams seep into the ground and contaminate underlying aquifers.
Industrial Discharge
Manufacturing facilities that use PFAS in their processes may release these compounds through wastewater discharge, air emissions, or solid waste disposal, contaminating nearby water sources.
Wastewater and Landfills
Conventional wastewater treatment was not designed to remove PFAS. When treated wastewater is discharged or consumer products containing PFAS are landfilled, these chemicals can enter the broader water cycle.
EPA Standards Timeline
2016: The EPA issued a non-enforceable health advisory level of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for combined PFOA and PFOS. This provided guidance but did not require water systems to test for or reduce these compounds.
April 2024: The EPA finalized the first-ever legally enforceable National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for six PFAS compounds. The new standards set Maximum Contaminant Levels of 4 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS individually, and established limits for PFHxS, PFNA, PFDA, and GenX chemicals.
12,000+
Known PFAS Compounds
4 ppt
EPA Limit for PFOA/PFOS
2029
Compliance Deadline
PFAS in Colorado and What You Can Do
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has conducted extensive testing of water systems throughout the state, particularly in areas near known PFAS sources. Communities near Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora, and the former Lowry Landfill in Denver have been identified as areas where PFAS contamination has affected groundwater. Colorado has adopted its own PFAS standards that in some cases are more stringent than previous federal advisories.
Start by reviewing your water quality report to check whether your utility has tested for PFAS. Request a home water analysis to test for PFAS at your specific tap. For treatment, activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and ion exchange systems have demonstrated effectiveness against specific PFAS compounds. Stay informed as PFAS regulation is evolving rapidly -- follow updates from the EPA, CDPHE, and your local utility.
Disclaimer: The Water Awareness Foundation is an independent educational organization. We are not affiliated with any government agency, water utility, or regulatory body. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice.
Wondering About PFAS in Your Water?
A home water analysis can test for PFAS and other contaminants at your specific tap. No obligation.