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PFAS

NFDHA in Connecticut Drinking Water

NFDHA has been detected in water systems serving 6,160 ZIP codes nationwide. Here is what you need to know about nfdha in your drinking water and how it may affect your household.

What Is NFDHA?

NFDHA (nonafluoro-3,6-dioxaheptanoic acid) is an ether carboxylate PFAS compound associated with newer fluorochemical manufacturing processes used as alternatives to legacy PFAS. It enters water through industrial discharge and contaminated site migration. No EPA maximum contaminant level has been set. It is persistent in the environment and current research suggests potential liver and kidney effects.

Is NFDHA in Your Water?

Enter your Connecticut ZIP code to find out if nfdha is in your local water — and see personalized health risks for your household.

Check Your ZIP Code

Health Effects of NFDHA

Part of the PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) family of 'forever chemicals.' Linked to cancer, immune system harm, hormone disruption, and developmental effects. Does not break down in the environment or the human body.

Where Does NFDHA Come From?

Industrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), consumer products, landfill leachate, wastewater treatment plants.

How to Reduce NFDHA in Your Water

  1. 1Install a reverse osmosis system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58, which provides effective removal of ether carboxylate PFAS compounds like NFDHA.
  2. 2Use an activated carbon filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53; shorter-chain ether PFAS may be less effectively captured by carbon, so monitor filter lifespan carefully.
  3. 3Consider an ion exchange resin system designed for PFAS removal as a supplement to or replacement for carbon filtration.
  4. 4Test water using EPA Method 533 to detect NFDHA and related newer-generation PFAS, and verify filtration performance at regular intervals.

Who Is Most Vulnerable to NFDHA?

The safe level of nfdha varies significantly depending on who is drinking the water. CheckYourTap calculates adjusted safe levels for each member of your household:

Infants (under 1 year)
Toddlers (1-3 years)
Children (4-11 years)
Pregnant women
Elderly (65+)
Adults
Dogs
Cats

A contaminant level that is safe for an adult may exceed guidelines for an infant by 4-8x or more. Check your ZIP code to see personalized results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NFDHA in my tap water?
NFDHA has been detected in water systems across 6,160 ZIP codes. Whether it's in your specific water depends on your local water system. Enter your CT ZIP code at CheckYourTap.com for a free, instant report.
What level of NFDHA is safe?
The safe level depends on who is drinking the water. Health guidelines vary by source, but infants, pregnant women, and pets may need much lower levels. CheckYourTap calculates adjusted safe levels for 11 different household member types.
How do I remove NFDHA from my water?
Install a reverse osmosis system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58, which provides effective removal of ether carboxylate PFAS compounds like NFDHA. Use an activated carbon filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53; shorter-chain ether PFAS may be less effectively captured by carbon, so monitor filter lifespan carefully. For a personalized consultation, contact Valiant Energy Solutions at (475) 557-5107.

Related Contaminants

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About This Report

This water quality report is compiled from public records filed with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state health departments, and the U.S. Geological Survey. Contaminant levels are evaluated against EPA federal standards and health-based guidelines from leading environmental and public health organizations. CheckYourTap is a service of Valiant Energy Solutions, a Connecticut water quality and energy services company established in 1930.

EPA SDWISUSGS NWISEWG Tap Water DatabaseCA OEHHA Public Health GoalsWHO Drinking Water Guidelines

Last updated March 2026