- The Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority reported PFOS averaging 4.44 parts per trillion, above the 4 ppt federal limit, and PFOA averaging 3.98 ppt.
- The North Wales Water Authority reported running averages of 12.6 ppt PFOA and 10.5 ppt PFOS from its North Wales wells.
- Utilities have until later this decade to meet the federal limits, and current results are within Pennsylvania state limits.
- Reverse osmosis at the kitchen sink is one of the most effective ways to reduce PFAS in the water you drink.
PFAS, often called forever chemicals, are a large family of man-made compounds used for decades in nonstick coatings, stain resistant fabrics, and firefighting foam. They break down very slowly and have been found in water supplies across the country, including here in Southeastern Pennsylvania. In 2024 the EPA set the first federal drinking water limits for several PFAS, including 4 parts per trillion each for PFOA and PFOS.
Here is what the two largest public suppliers serving Bucks County reported in their most recent annual water quality reports.
Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority
| Contaminant | Result | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| PFOA | 3.98 ppt average, up to 7.15 ppt | 14 ppt state, 4 ppt federal |
| PFOS | 4.44 ppt average, up to 6.87 ppt | 18 ppt state, 4 ppt federal |
Both averages are within Pennsylvania state limits. The PFOS average is above the new federal limit, and the PFOA average sits just under it, with individual samples above it.
North Wales Water Authority
| Contaminant | Result | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| PFOA | Running average 1.9 ppt from the Forest Park plant, 12.6 ppt from the North Wales wells | 14 ppt state, 4 ppt federal |
| PFOS | Running average 10.5 ppt from the North Wales wells | 18 ppt state, 4 ppt federal |
Water from the Forest Park treatment plant is well under the federal limit for PFOA. The North Wales wells are within state limits but above the federal limits for both PFOA and PFOS. Which source reaches your home depends on where you live in the system.
What about private wells
Private wells are not tested by anyone unless the owner does it. PFAS have been found in groundwater in parts of Bucks and Montgomery counties, especially near current and former military sites. If you are on a well, ask a Pennsylvania DEP accredited laboratory about a PFAS panel.
How to reduce PFAS at home
Reverse osmosis is one of the treatment methods the EPA identifies as effective for reducing PFAS. An under-sink system treats the water you actually drink and cook with, from its own faucet. Look for systems certified to NSF/ANSI standards for PFAS reduction, and keep up with filter and membrane changes, because performance depends on maintenance.
You can read the full summary for your area on our Bucks County water report page.