PFAS

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PFAS Treatment Strategy

SCWA is a national leader in PFAS removal. Our mission is the complete elimination of these compounds from your drinking water supply.

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Full Compliance Reached Early

SCWA has already achieved full compliance with the EPA’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, years ahead of the federal deadline.

What are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals used globally in consumer and industrial products since the 1940s. Known as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down in the environment, they have made their way into groundwater supplies across the nation.

The EPA and NYS Department of Health monitor PFAS because long-term exposure may lead to health effects including increased cholesterol levels, changes in liver enzymes, and impacts on the immune system. SCWA treats these findings with the utmost priority, targeting zero-detection as our operational goal.

Advanced Laboratory Testing

The Suffolk County Water Authority maintains rigorous testing standards to ensure we are detecting PFAS.

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  • SCWA’s state-of-the-art laboratory is one of the most advanced in the world.
  • SCWA can detect PFAS at levels as low as 2 Parts Per Trillion (PPT).
  • SCWA tests before, during and after treatment for PFAS to ensure we are meeting our high standards of water quality.

The Treatment Solution

We utilize Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)—the "Gold Standard" for PFAS removal. Water passes through large vessels containing activated carbon, which acts as a molecular magnet to trap PFAS compounds before water is sent to your tap. Testing done after GAC treatment generally shows PFAS to be non-detectable.

SCWA GAC Treatment Vessels
Above: Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) vessels at an SCWA pump station.
Want to see your results? Go here to look up your address and see the specific quality data for your home. Use our My Water Quality Tool→

Official Resources

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