PFAS in New Hampshire: What You Need to Know in 2025

TL;DR: PFAS in New Hampshire drinking water remains a widespread concern in 2025. From private wells to public systems, these “forever chemicals” are showing up across the state. Understanding where contamination exists, how it affects your health, and what you can do to protect your home is as important as ever.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used in everything from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. Known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, PFAS are also incredibly persistent—earning the nickname “forever chemicals.”

These compounds don’t easily break down in the environment or the human body. Over time, they can build up in blood and organs, potentially leading to serious health concerns.

Health Concerns Linked to PFAS Exposure

While research continues, current studies associate long-term PFAS exposure with:

• Kidney and testicular cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Liver damage
• Hormonal disruption
• Lowered vaccine response in children
• Developmental issues in infants

Even at low concentrations, PFAS in drinking water may be harmful over time, which is why strict limits and proactive removal are so important.

PFAS in New Hampshire Drinking Water (2025 Update)

New Hampshire has been on the front lines of PFAS contamination for years. Today, the issue is still far from resolved. Municipal water systems and private wells across the state continue to test above recommended safety limits.

The state now follows Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) more stringent than federal standards:

• PFOA: 4 parts per trillion (ppt)
• PFOS: 4 ppt
• PFHxS: 18 ppt
• PFNA: 11 ppt

These limits were established in response to mounting evidence that even small amounts of PFAS in New Hampshire water could be dangerous.

The NH PFAS Contamination Map

To stay informed, residents can access the NH PFAS contamination map through the Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). This tool outlines:

• Impacted towns and municipalities
• PFAS contamination levels in ppt (parts per trillion) at NHDES Environmental Monitoring Database stations
• Results over time

The map is updated regularly to reflect new testing data.

PFAS Hotspots: Where Contamination Is Most Severe

While PFAS have been detected throughout the state, several areas face elevated levels:

• Merrimack: Contamination traced back to industrial manufacturing, including the Saint-Gobain facility
• Bedford and Litchfield: Nearby communities impacted by industrial runoff and air emissions
• Portsmouth: The former Pease Air Force Base is a well-documented PFAS source
• Southern NH towns: Proximity to highways and commercial development increases PFAS risk

If you live in or near one of these areas, regular testing is highly recommended.

PFAS Testing for NH Drinking Water

Testing is the first step toward better, cleaner water. PFAS are invisible, tasteless, and odorless. You won’t know they’re in your water unless you test.

NH Tap offers PFAS water testing across New Hampshire, using certified labs to detect even trace amounts. We’ll also help interpret your results and determine whether a PFAS removal system is necessary.

Testing is especially important if:

• Your home is within 10 miles of an industrial facility
• You live near a known contamination site
• You’ve received a notice from your town or water supplier

PFAS Removal Systems in New Hampshire

If testing reveals contamination, the next step is installing a PFAS removal system tailored to your water chemistry. At NH Tap, we specialize in point-of-use and whole-home systems that eliminate 99.9% of PFAS using advanced filtration media.

The most effective solutions include:

• Granular Activated Carbon (GAC): Adsorbs PFAS as water flows through the filter
• Reverse Osmosis: Highly effective at a single faucet or point-of-use location

Each home’s needs are different. That’s why we provide water testing, system design, installation, and maintenance all in one place.

Is There Financial Help for PFAS Removal in NH?

Yes. Through the PFAS Removal Rebate Program, New Hampshire homeowners with private wells may qualify for financial assistance. If your water tests above state limits, you could be eligible for:

• Free water testing
• Whole-home PFAS filtration systems at no cost
• City water connection (if available in your area)

As of 2025, this program continues to expand to cover more towns outside the initial Saint-Gobain consent decree zone.

NH Tap: Your Partner in Safe Drinking Water

As a local water expert, NH Tap has helped thousands of New Hampshire families detect and remove contaminants from their water. We stay ahead of state regulations, testing technology, and treatment solutions so you don’t have to.

Schedule your PFAS test today and find out what’s in your water before it impacts your health.