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PFAS

PFMBA in Connecticut Drinking Water

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

What Is PFMBA?

PFMBA (perfluoro-4-methoxybutanoic acid) is a short-chain ether carboxylate PFAS compound associated with next-generation fluorochemical manufacturing. It enters water through industrial discharge and contaminated site leachate. No EPA maximum contaminant level has been set. It is persistent in the environment, and while less bioaccumulative than long-chain PFAS, it is more mobile in water and associated with potential liver and developmental effects.

Is PFMBA in Your Water?

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

Check Your ZIP Code

Health Effects of PFMBA

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 PFMBA Come From?

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

How to Reduce PFMBA in Your Water

  1. 1Install a reverse osmosis system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58, which provides effective removal of short-chain ether PFAS compounds like PFMBA.
  2. 2Use a high-quality activated carbon filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53; short-chain ether PFAS have lower affinity for carbon, so monitor filter capacity closely.
  3. 3Consider an ion exchange resin system designed for PFAS removal to supplement carbon filtration, particularly for short-chain compounds.
  4. 4Test water using EPA Method 533 to detect PFMBA and monitor treatment system performance, replacing media more frequently than recommended for longer-chain PFAS.

Who Is Most Vulnerable to PFMBA?

The safe level of pfmba 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 PFMBA in my tap water?
PFMBA 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 PFMBA 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 PFMBA from my water?
Install a reverse osmosis system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58, which provides effective removal of short-chain ether PFAS compounds like PFMBA. Use a high-quality activated carbon filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53; short-chain ether PFAS have lower affinity for carbon, so monitor filter capacity closely. 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