PFAS in Fresno, CA Drinking Water
PFAS have been detected in Fresno, CA drinking water at approximately 5.2 ppt. The EPA maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS is 4 ppt individually.
PFAS levels in Fresno water (5.2 ppt) exceed the EPA Maximum Contaminant Level of 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS (finalized April 2024). These "forever chemicals" do not break down naturally and accumulate in the human body over time. A certified filtration system is strongly recommended.
See PFAS-Removing Filters for FresnoPFAS Contamination Snapshot
Fresno, CAPFAS & Water Quality Data
Fresno, CA| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PFAS (Total) | 5.2 ppt | 4.0 ppt (PFOA/PFOS) | Exceeds MCL |
| PFOA | 5.2 ppt* | 4.0 ppt | Over Limit |
| PFOS | 5.2 ppt* | 4.0 ppt | Over Limit |
| GenX (HFPO-DA) | Possibly present | 10 ppt | Check Report |
| PFAS Risk Level | Elevated | High — Exceeds EPA Limit | |
| Purity Score | 62/100 | — | Fair |
| Water Source | Kings River and groundwater | — | |
Total PFAS measurement shown. Individual PFOA/PFOS concentrations may differ — consult your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for compound-level data.
EPA PFAS Standards
What they mean for FresnoFinal PFAS Rule (Current)
In April 2024, the EPA finalized the first-ever legally enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels for PFAS in drinking water:
Compliance Monitoring Begins
City of Fresno Department of Public Utilities in Fresno will be required to test and report results.
Full Compliance Deadline
All public water systems must meet the MCLs or install treatment to reduce PFAS below legal limits.
EPA finalized enforceable PFAS limits in 2024: 4 ppt for PFOA, 4 ppt for PFOS individually.
This exceeds the EPA MCL of 4.0 ppt by 1.2 ppt (30% over the limit). Fresno's utility must reduce PFAS levels or face enforcement by 2029.
Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
Fresno residents should be awarePFAS exposure is linked to: kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, immune system suppression, reproductive issues, liver damage, and developmental effects in children.
Cancer Risk
PFOA is classified as a possible human carcinogen. Studies link PFAS exposure to kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and elevated risks of bladder and liver cancers.
Thyroid Disease
PFAS disrupt thyroid hormone regulation. Exposure is associated with hypothyroidism, thyroid cancer, and metabolic dysfunction — particularly dangerous during pregnancy.
Immune System
PFAS reduce vaccine antibody response and suppress immune function. Children with higher PFAS blood levels show weaker responses to routine vaccinations.
Reproductive & Developmental
Linked to decreased fertility, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, low birth weight, and developmental delays in children exposed in utero.
Liver & Kidney Damage
PFAS accumulate in the liver and kidneys. Chronic exposure is associated with elevated cholesterol, liver enzyme changes, and impaired kidney function.
Cardiovascular Effects
Strong evidence links PFAS to elevated total and LDL cholesterol levels, increasing risk of heart disease, atherosclerosis, and stroke over time.
What Are PFAS?
How they get into Fresno's waterPFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of over 14,000 synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s. Their carbon-fluorine bond — one of the strongest in chemistry — makes them virtually indestructible in nature, earning the name "forever chemicals."
Industrial Discharge
Factories manufacturing or using PFAS release contaminated wastewater into rivers and groundwater. Fresno's kings river and groundwater source may be affected.
Firefighting Foam (AFFF)
PFAS-containing aqueous film-forming foam used at military bases, airports, and fire training facilities seeps into soil and groundwater.
Landfill Leachate
Consumer products containing PFAS break down in landfills. PFAS-laden leachate can contaminate groundwater for decades.
Biosolids & Runoff
Wastewater biosolids applied to farmland as fertilizer carry PFAS into soil and eventually into watershed systems.
Removing PFAS from Fresno Water
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
Under-sink RO systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing PFAS along with lead, arsenic, and other contaminants.
- Highest PFAS removal rate available
- NSF/ANSI 58 certified systems available
- Removes virtually all contaminants
- Point-of-use — treats drinking water directly
Activated Carbon (GAC)
Granular activated carbon and carbon block filters adsorb PFAS compounds. Better for long-chain PFAS (PFOA/PFOS) than short-chain variants.
- More affordable than RO
- NSF P473 certified options available
- Also removes chlorine, taste, and odor
- Pitcher, faucet, or under-sink formats
Ion Exchange Resin
Anion exchange resins specifically designed for PFAS removal. Effective for both long-chain and short-chain compounds.
- Effective on short-chain PFAS
- High flow rate capability
- Whole-house systems available
- Long media lifespan
A reverse osmosis system is strongly recommended for Fresno. RO removes 99%+ of all PFAS compounds. Standard Brita pitchers do NOT remove PFAS.
More About Fresno Water Quality
Frequently Asked Questions
PFAS in Fresno WaterPFAS have been detected in Fresno, CA drinking water at approximately 5.2 ppt. The EPA maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS is 4 ppt individually.
A reverse osmosis system is strongly recommended for Fresno. RO removes 99%+ of all PFAS compounds. Standard Brita pitchers do NOT remove PFAS.
PFAS exposure is linked to cancer, thyroid disease, immune suppression, reproductive issues, liver damage, and developmental effects in children.
Protect Your Family from PFAS in Fresno
PFAS detected at 5.2 ppt — exceeds EPA limit. These chemicals don't break down and accumulate in your body over time.