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PFAS

PFMPA in Connecticut Drinking Water

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

What Is PFMPA?

PFMPA (perfluoro-3-methoxypropanoic acid) is a short-chain ether carboxylate PFAS compound used in newer fluorochemical manufacturing processes. 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 highly mobile in water. Current research suggests potential effects on the liver and kidneys based on structural similarity to related PFAS.

Is PFMPA in Your Water?

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

Check Your ZIP Code

Health Effects of PFMPA

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 PFMPA Come From?

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

How to Reduce PFMPA in Your Water

  1. 1Install a reverse osmosis system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58, which is one of the most reliable methods for removing short-chain ether PFAS like PFMPA.
  2. 2Use a high-quality activated carbon filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53; short-chain ether PFAS may pass through standard carbon more quickly, requiring earlier replacement.
  3. 3Consider a specialized ion exchange resin system for PFAS removal as a complementary or alternative treatment to carbon filtration.
  4. 4Test water using EPA Method 533 to detect PFMPA, and monitor filtration performance closely since short-chain PFAS can break through treatment systems sooner.

Who Is Most Vulnerable to PFMPA?

The safe level of pfmpa 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 PFMPA in my tap water?
PFMPA 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 PFMPA 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 PFMPA from my water?
Install a reverse osmosis system certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58, which is one of the most reliable methods for removing short-chain ether PFAS like PFMPA. Use a high-quality activated carbon filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53; short-chain ether PFAS may pass through standard carbon more quickly, requiring earlier replacement. For a personalized consultation, contact Valiant Energy Solutions at (475) 557-5107.

Related Contaminants

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View all contaminants in Connecticut water

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