What PFAS are
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances have been used in non-stick coatings, stain- and water-resistant products, some food packaging and certain firefighting foams. They break down very slowly. EPA set limits for several PFAS in 2024 and has since proposed changes to parts of that rule; EPA's PFAS page has the current status.
Where to look, by provider
| Provider | Where PFAS data is |
|---|---|
| City of Oakland Park | EPA UCMR 5 Data Finder (search Fort Lauderdale and Oakland Park); ask Public Works at 954-630-4430 |
| Broward County (North Andrews Gardens, Lakeside) | The county's 2025 Water Quality Report lists detected PFAS by district, with a PFAS section on its website |
| Fort Lauderdale (Twin Lakes South) | EPA UCMR 5 data; Customer Service Center at 954-828-8000 |
Broward County's report shows PFOA, PFOS and other compounds detected in 2025 samples, alongside the federal limits that take effect in 2029. Read your district's column and compare it with EPA's current rule.
Fort Lauderdale's new plant
Fort Lauderdale says its Prospect Lake Clean Water Center, which uses nanofiltration and ion exchange, is designed to give more flexibility to respond to evolving standards and emerging contaminants. We do not speak for its PFAS results; watch future reports from Fort Lauderdale and Oakland Park.
Choosing a PFAS filter
- Look for NSF/ANSI 53 (filters) or NSF/ANSI 58 (reverse osmosis) certification listing PFOA and PFOS reduction.
- Match the exact model number on the certifier's listing.
- Replace cartridges and membranes on schedule.
Living Water does not claim its systems remove PFAS. See how to verify PFAS reduction claims.
Reading results
PFAS results are usually reported in micrograms per liter or parts per trillion, with a minimum reporting level below which a compound shows as not detected. Compare detected values with EPA's current rule for PFOA, PFOS and the other regulated PFAS, and note the sampling dates. Results describe the water leaving the plant or system, which is the relevant point for PFAS, since home plumbing does not add them.
Testing your own tap
PFAS testing requires a certified lab using EPA methods. Jorge's free in-home screening covers chloramine, hardness, TDS and pH, not PFAS. He can help you read your provider's data and decide whether a lab test makes sense. Renters can use a certified pitcher or faucet filter whose listing includes PFOA and PFOS. Call, text or WhatsApp Jorge at (305) 793-5974.
https://www.broward.org/waterservices/WaterQualityReport
https://www.oaklandparkfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14670/Water-Quality-Report-2024
https://www.fortlauderdale.gov/Residents/City-News/Fort-Lauderdale-Celebrates-Opening-of-Prospect-Lake-Clean-Water-Center
https://www.epa.gov/dwucmr/fifth-unregulated-contaminant-monitoring-rule-data-finder
https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist