Where Does Falmouth's Water Come From?
Water Source
Falmouth Water Department groundwater wells (sole source aquifer)
Falmouth draws all its drinking water from groundwater wells tapping the Cape Cod sole source aquifer. Located adjacent to Joint Base Cape Cod, Falmouth is in the direct path of PFAS contamination plumes migrating through the aquifer from military operations. The town has been proactive in testing and treatment, but the contamination remains a defining water quality challenge.
What's in Falmouth's Water?
Based on water quality reports, testing data, and environmental assessments, these are the contaminants of concern for Falmouth residents:
PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")
Status: Detected — Military base proximity
PFAS from Joint Base Cape Cod have been detected in Falmouth's groundwater wells. The town's proximity to the base — particularly the Coonamessett and Long Pond well areas — means PFAS plumes are an ongoing threat.
PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)
Status: Detected above health guidelines
PFOS from military firefighting foam use is the primary PFAS contaminant affecting Falmouth. Detection levels have triggered treatment installation on affected wells.
1,4-Dioxane
Status: Detected in some wells
This industrial solvent and emerging contaminant has been detected in some Falmouth wells. It's a likely carcinogen that's difficult to remove with standard treatment.
Nitrates
Status: Elevated in some areas
Falmouth's extensive septic system use and proximity to agricultural areas contribute to nitrate loading in the aquifer. Summer population surge increases wastewater volume.
Health Risks for Falmouth Residents
According to the EPA and Environmental Working Group (EWG), prolonged exposure to contaminants found in Falmouth's water may increase risk of:
- • Cancer: PFAS, particularly PFOS and PFOA, are linked to kidney, testicular, and other cancers. 1,4-Dioxane is a probable carcinogen.
- • Immune & Thyroid Effects: PFAS accumulate in the body and disrupt both immune function and thyroid hormone production
- • Reproductive Concerns: PFAS exposure is associated with reduced fertility and pregnancy complications
📍 Falmouth Local Tip
Falmouth residents near the base boundary — particularly in the North Falmouth and Coonamessett areas — are closest to the PFAS plume source. The town has been transparent about testing results on their website. Even in areas farther from the base, the aquifer interconnection means PFAS can migrate over time. A whole-house carbon filter plus under-sink RO provides the best protection.
The Solution: Reverse Osmosis Filtration
Standard pitcher filters (like Brita) are not effective at removing PFAS or most contaminants found in Falmouth's water. Water quality experts recommend a Reverse Osmosis (RO) system that can remove up to 99% of dissolved contaminants.
Why RO Works for Falmouth Water:
- ✓ Removes 99%+ of PFAS, PFOS, 1,4-Dioxane
- ✓ Uses semi-permeable membrane to filter at molecular level
- ✓ Fits under your kitchen sink — no major renovation needed
- ✓ Provides clean drinking and cooking water on demand
- ✓ NSF-certified systems are independently tested and verified
Top Recommended RO Systems for Falmouth
APEC ROES-50
A reliable, no-frills workhorse — perfect for Falmouth families on a budget.
- • 5-Stage filtration system
- • Removes up to 99% of contaminants including PFAS
- • Industry-standard parts (easy, affordable replacements)
- • Excellent long-term track record with thousands of reviews
iSpring RCC7AK
Best for taste — adds healthy minerals back after filtering Falmouth's water.
- • 6-Stage with alkaline remineralization
- • Water tastes like natural spring water
- • See-through housing shows filter condition
- • Top-rated by Falmouth area homeowners
Waterdrop G3P800
The modern, space-saving tankless choice for Falmouth homes.
- • Tankless design saves cabinet space
- • 800 GPD flow rate (fills a cup in seconds)
- • Smart faucet displays real-time water quality
- • Easy twist-and-pull filter changes — no plumber needed
Ready to Install?
Step-by-step DIY installation guide — works for any Falmouth home
View Installation Guide →Frequently Asked Questions — Falmouth Water
Is Falmouth MA water safe to drink?
Falmouth water is treated and monitored, but PFAS contamination from Joint Base Cape Cod is a serious ongoing concern. The town has installed treatment on affected wells, but experts recommend home filtration as an additional safeguard, especially for families with children.
How close is the PFAS plume to Falmouth wells?
The PFAS contamination plume from Joint Base Cape Cod extends into Falmouth, directly affecting some water supply wells. The plume migrates through the aquifer over time, meaning previously clean wells can become contaminated.
Is Falmouth doing anything about PFAS?
Yes, Falmouth has been proactive — installing granular activated carbon treatment on affected wells, conducting regular monitoring, and working with state and federal agencies on source cleanup. However, PFAS remediation is a decades-long process.
What water filter removes PFAS in Falmouth?
Reverse osmosis is the gold standard for PFAS removal, achieving 95-99% reduction. For Falmouth residents, an under-sink RO system is the most effective home solution. Some whole-house activated carbon filters also reduce PFAS, but less effectively than RO.
Sources
- • Falmouth Water Department Annual Water Quality Report (2024)
- • Massachusetts DEP PFAS Monitoring — Upper Cape
- • EPA Investigation — Joint Base Cape Cod
- • Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database
- • Cape Cod Commission Water Resources Report