Are you worried that PFAS might be in your well water and you don’t know where to start?
How Do I Test For PFAS In My Well Water?
This section explains the core steps you can take to test for PFAS in your private well. You’ll learn what PFAS are, why testing matters for your health, and the basic process for getting an accurate test result.
What are PFAS and why they matter to your well water
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of synthetic chemicals used in many industrial and consumer products because they repel water and oil. They are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in groundwater, so they may reach your well water and present long-term exposure risks.
Common sources of PFAS contamination near wells
PFAS commonly get into the environment from manufacturing sites, airports and military bases where firefighting foams were used, landfills, wastewater treatment plants, and sites where biosolids (treated sewage sludge) are applied to land. If any of these sources are near your property, your well is more likely to be influenced.
Health concerns associated with PFAS exposure
Long-term exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to health effects such as increased cholesterol, impacts on the immune system, thyroid disease, certain cancers, and developmental effects in children. Because these effects can be serious, testing your well is an important protective step if you suspect contamination.
Should You Test Your Well for PFAS?
This section helps you decide whether to test and explains factors that increase the likelihood you should take action. You’ll get guidance on conditions that raise the risk of PFAS being present in your water.
When testing is strongly recommended
You should consider testing if your property is near a known PFAS source (industrial site, airport, military base, landfill), if your neighbors have tested positive, if you obtain water from a shallow or unlined well, or if you use materials or products on your property that could contain PFAS. Testing is also recommended if you have health concerns that might be related to PFAS exposure.
When you might test even without a known source
Even if you don’t know of a nearby source, regional contamination can travel in groundwater. If you want peace of mind or you plan to use your well water for infant formula, pregnancy, or other sensitive uses, testing can provide reassurance and guide treatment decisions.
What PFAS Compounds Should You Test For?
This section identifies specific PFAS compounds that labs commonly test for and explains why broad PFAS panels are often preferable. You’ll learn which analytes are most important to include in your sample.
Common target PFAS in laboratory panels
Laboratories often test for PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFBS, and PFHpA among others. These are historically common and well-studied PFAS that many regulatory agencies have set advisory levels for, so labs measure them routinely.
Why you may want a broader screening panel
There are thousands of PFAS variants, including newer replacement chemicals that may not be captured by narrow panels. A broader screening (for example 20–30 or more PFAS) increases the odds of detecting contamination and helps you understand the full scope of what might be in your water.
How to Find a Qualified Laboratory
This section explains how to choose a lab with the capability to test for PFAS at low concentrations and with the proper accreditation. You’ll get practical steps so your sample yields reliable results.
Look for accreditation and method capability
Choose a lab accredited by your state or by national accreditation programs (like the U.S. National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program, NELAP) and one that performs EPA-approved methods for PFAS, such as EPA Method 537.1 or 533. Accreditation means the lab follows quality controls and reporting practices you can trust.
Ask about detection limits and reporting units
PFAS are often present at very low concentrations, so ask the lab for their method detection limits (MDLs) and reporting limits. You should get results reported in parts per trillion (ppt or ng/L). Lower detection limits give you more useful data for health decisions.
How to Collect a PFAS Sample from Your Well
This section gives step-by-step guidance for collecting a water sample that will yield accurate laboratory results. Proper sampling technique and documentation are crucial to prevent contamination and invalid results.
Use the lab’s sample kit and follow their instructions
Labs typically provide a PFAS-specific sampling kit with pre-cleaned bottles, gloves, and instructions. Use the kit the lab provides; do not substitute bottles or handle bottles with bare hands. Following the lab’s directions ensures the bottle conditioning is preserved and contamination is minimized.
Flush, purge, and sample from the correct point
You should sample from a cold-water tap that is directly connected to the well system and not after in-home treatment devices unless you want to test the treated water. Purge the system by running the tap long enough to draw fresh well water (commonly several minutes or until temperature stabilizes) so the sample reflects source water, not stagnated plumbing.
Avoid contamination while sampling
Use nitrile gloves and handle only the neck of the bottle. Do not rinse the bottle, breathe directly over the opening, or use soaps or cleaners that could contain PFAS. Label the bottle, seal it tightly, and keep it chilled.
Chain of custody and documentation
Complete the lab’s chain-of-custody form and note the sample location, date, time, well depth or type, recent rainfall or possible contamination events, and any pre-treatment devices. Documentation helps the lab interpret results and preserves sample integrity for any regulatory or health actions.
Sample Storage, Shipping, and Hold Times
This section explains how to store and ship your sample to the lab so results remain valid. Timeliness and temperature are critical for PFAS samples.
Keep samples chilled and ship quickly
Keep samples on ice or refrigerated at 4°C and ship them overnight if possible. Many PFAS analyses have a recommended hold time (commonly 14 days or less from collection to extraction/analysis), so timely shipping matters.
Avoid contamination during transport
Use a sealed cooler with ice packs, and do not place the sample next to substances that could contain PFAS (like treated clothing or packaging). Include the signed chain-of-custody when delivering or shipping.
Interpreting PFAS Test Results
This section helps you understand what your lab report means, including how to read concentrations and compare them to health advisory levels. You’ll learn what results should prompt concern.
Understanding the units and detection limits
PFAS concentrations are reported in parts per trillion (ppt) or nanograms per liter (ng/L), where 1 ppt = 1 ng/L. Pay attention to “non-detect” values and the lab’s reporting limit; a non-detect means the compound is below the lab’s reporting limit, not necessarily absent.
Compare results to health advisories and standards
Use federal and state health advisories or regulatory standards to evaluate risk. For example, the EPA has issued health advisories for PFOA and PFOS (although advisory levels have changed over time and may vary by state). Check your state health department for the most current guidance because regulatory benchmarks are evolving.
What a single positive result means
A single detection indicates PFAS are present and you should consider confirmatory testing and assessment of the contamination extent. You may want to test additional points (other taps, neighboring wells, deeper wells) and test repeatedly over time to establish trends.
What to Do If Your Well Tests Positive
This section outlines short-term and long-term steps you can take if PFAS are detected in your water. You’ll learn treatment and alternative water options and how to prioritize actions for safety.
Immediate steps for short-term exposure reduction
If concentrations exceed health advisory levels, stop using the water for drinking, making infant formula, or cooking unless you use bottled water or an approved point-of-use treatment. Inform household members and consider bottled water for sensitive populations (pregnant women, infants, immunocompromised).
Permanent solutions: whole-house and point-of-use treatment
Consider whole-house or point-of-use treatments designed for PFAS removal such as granular activated carbon (GAC), ion exchange resins, or reverse osmosis (RO). Whole-house systems treat all water entering the home; point-of-use systems (like under-sink RO) treat only specific taps used for drinking and cooking.
Contacting local health departments and specialists
Report your results to your state or local health department and ask for guidance. You may also engage a certified water treatment professional or a hydrogeologist to evaluate contamination sources, groundwater flow, and remediation options.
Treatment Options for PFAS: Pros, Cons, and Costs
This section gives a comparative view of common PFAS treatment options and practical considerations so you can decide what fits your needs and budget. You’ll get guidance on maintenance, performance, and likely costs.
Table: PFAS treatment technologies at a glance
| Treatment type | How it works | Pros | Cons | Typical cost range (installation) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) | Adsorbs PFAS onto carbon media | Effective for many long-chain PFAS; well-established | Less effective for short-chain PFAS; media exhaustion requires replacement | $1,500–$8,000+ for whole-house |
| Ion Exchange Resins | PFAS swap onto resin beads | Very effective for many PFAS including some short-chain variants | Resin disposal/regeneration needed; skilled maintenance | $1,500–$10,000+ depending on system |
| Reverse Osmosis (RO) Point-of-Use | Physical membrane filtration at under-sink tap | High removal efficiency for many PFAS; compact | Treats only one tap; rejects wastewater; requires maintenance | $300–$2,000+ for under-sink system |
| Distillation | Boiling and condensing water to remove contaminants | Removes many PFAS effectively | Energy-intensive; slow; maintenance | $500–$3,000+ |
| Blending/Alternative Source | Mix with cleaner water or use alternative supply | Quick community-level solution | Requires access to clean water source; not always feasible | Varies widely |
Choosing the right treatment for your situation
Consider which PFAS were detected, concentrations, whether you need whole-house treatment, and your budget. For example, if short-chain PFAS dominate, RO or specialized ion exchange may outperform standard GAC. Ask vendors for third-party performance data and request lab analysis after installation to confirm system performance.
Maintenance and disposal concerns
Treatment systems require ongoing maintenance: replacing GAC or RO filters on schedule, monitoring breakthrough of PFAS on media, and disposing of spent media or regenerant wastes per environmental regulations. Plan for recurring costs in your budget.
Cost Considerations and Funding Options
This section covers typical costs for testing and treatment and potential funding or support resources to ease financial burden. You’ll learn how to plan expenses and where to look for assistance.
Typical testing and treatment expenses
PFAS testing by a qualified lab can range from $200–$1,000+ depending on the number of compounds tested and whether you use a certified lab. Treatment system costs vary widely as shown in the table. Include installation, maintenance, and disposal costs in your total estimate.
Funding and assistance possibilities
Some states offer financial assistance or cost-share programs for private well testing and treatment, especially in areas with known contamination. Federal or state remediation programs might cover community-level solutions but typically not private well replacement unless part of a larger cleanup. Contact your state health or environmental agency to learn about available aid.
Monitoring Frequency and When to Re-Test
This section explains how often you should test your well for PFAS and what events should prompt immediate re-testing. Monitoring plans should be tailored to your contamination risk and treatment system.
Routine re-testing schedule
If your well tested nondetect or low levels, consider testing every 1–3 years because conditions can change. If PFAS were detected but you implemented treatment, test more frequently (e.g., every 6–12 months) to ensure continued effectiveness.
Test after unusual events or changes
Re-test after events that could change groundwater quality such as chemical spills nearby, new construction that alters groundwater flow, changes in local industry, or sustained heavy rains and flooding which can mobilize contaminants. Also test if your treatment system was serviced or replaced.
How Do I Protect My Well During Heavy Rainstorms?
This section focuses on practical steps to protect your well from contamination during heavy rain and flooding. You’ll learn preventive maintenance and emergency actions to reduce the risk of contaminants entering your well.
Why heavy rain and flooding increase contamination risk
Heavy rain and flooding can raise the water table, cause surface contaminants to migrate into groundwater, and overwhelm drainage around the wellhead. If your wellhead or cap is compromised, contaminated surface water can enter the well directly.
Inspect and maintain the wellhead and seal
Ensure your well cap is intact, vented, and securely sealed to prevent surface water entry. The well casing should extend at least 12 inches above grade and the sanitary seal should be intact. If you find cracks or loose fittings, have a licensed well contractor make repairs promptly.
Protect the area around the well with grading and drainage
Grade the soil so water flows away from the wellhead and build a berm or swale as needed to divert runoff. Keep the area immediately surrounding the well free of low spots where water can pool. Avoid planting trees too close, as roots can crack casings and compromise seals.
Use a watertight cap and consider a raised headwall
If your area is prone to flooding, consider installing a watertight well cap or raising the wellhead above potential flood levels. A concrete or sealed headwall can help prevent floodwater from reaching the well opening.
Keep contaminants away from your well
Do not store hazardous materials, fertilizers, pesticides, or fuel near your well. During storms, runoff can carry these substances into the well area. Position any chemical storage at a safe distance and on impermeable surfaces with proper secondary containment.
Plan for power outages and pump protection
Heavy storms may interrupt power and cause pump cycling or contamination if water backs up. Consider installing a check valve to prevent backflow and a pressure tank with proper settings. If your pump is in a pit, ensure the pit is sealed and water-tight.
Post-storm inspection and sampling
After heavy rain or flooding, inspect the wellhead, cap, and wiring for damage and signs of contamination (e.g., mud inside the cap). If flooding occurred or you suspect contamination, do not use the water for drinking until it is tested and the well is disinfected as recommended by a professional.
Disinfection after flood contamination
If floodwater or surface contamination entered your well, disinfection (shock chlorination) is often required. This should be done by a qualified well professional who will follow procedures to mix and circulate chlorine, let it sit, and flush until safe. After disinfection, retest for bacteriological contamination and PFAS if you suspect chemical infiltration.
Practical Checklist for PFAS Testing and Well Protection
This section provides an actionable checklist you can follow for testing and protecting your well. It helps you keep tasks organized and minimizes missed steps.
Testing checklist
- Identify any nearby potential PFAS sources.
- Contact your state health or environmental agency for lab recommendations.
- Choose an accredited lab and request a PFAS-specific kit and testing panel.
- Follow the lab’s sampling instructions exactly (purge, use provided bottle, wear gloves).
- Complete chain-of-custody and ship samples chilled overnight.
- Review results, compare to health advisories, and consult health officials if positive.
- If positive, arrange confirmatory testing and assess treatment options.
Well protection checklist for storms
- Inspect cap and casing; repair any damage immediately.
- Ensure wellhead extends above grade and cap is watertight.
- Re-grade around the well so water flows away.
- Remove storage of hazardous materials near the well.
- Install a check valve and secure electrical components.
- After heavy rain/flooding, inspect and test for bacteriological contamination and PFAS if contamination likely.
Frequently Asked Questions About PFAS Testing
This section answers common questions you may have about PFAS testing so you can move forward with confidence. Each answer gives practical guidance and next steps.
Can you test a water filter or pitcher for PFAS?
Yes, but be clear whether you want to test source water (untreated well water) or treated water. If you’re assessing a filter, sample both before and after the filter to evaluate performance and replacement needs.
How soon will you get results?
Lab turnaround varies. Many labs provide preliminary results within a few days to two weeks; full results can take longer depending on the panel and lab workload. Ask the lab for an estimated turnaround time when you submit samples.
Will my state have standards that differ from federal advisory levels?
Yes. Some states have set enforceable standards or health-based guidance values that are lower than federal advisories. Always check your state health or environmental agency for the most relevant guidance for your area.
What if neighbors test positive—should you test?
If neighbors have PFAS in their water, you should test your well because groundwater contamination can be regional. Coordinate with neighbors and local officials if multiple wells are affected to understand the extent and potential common source.
Final Steps and Resources
This section outlines the final actions you should take after testing and points you to resources for further assistance. You’ll be equipped to make informed decisions and protect your household.
Take action based on results
If your well is below advisory levels, continue routine monitoring and maintain protective measures around your well. If results are elevated, use bottled or treated water for drinking and cooking while consulting professionals to select and install appropriate treatment or pursue alternate water supplies.
Useful resources
Contact your state health department or environmental agency for testing recommendations, lists of accredited labs, and funding opportunities. The EPA and local extension services often provide information on private well maintenance and testing. A licensed well contractor or certified water treatment professional can help with repairs and treatment system selection.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to test your well for PFAS correctly, interpret the results, protect your household during storms, and make informed choices about treatment and follow-up. If you’d like, you can tell me a bit about your location (state or general region) and whether you know of any nearby potential PFAS sources, and I’ll suggest specific labs and state resources to contact.