PFAS in the tap water in Berlin
The tap water in Berlin meets the legal limit for PFAS. Berliner Wasserbetriebe measured a sum of 20 PFAS of 7.6 ng/l. Here you can read what that means and what you can do yourself.
See the figures Shop ZeroWaterHow much PFAS is in the tap water in Berlin?
- The tap water in Berlin meets the legal limit of 100 ng/l for the sum of 20 PFAS.
- The measured value of 7.6 ng/l is well below the TrinkwV (UBA) advice level.
- TrinkwV (UBA) advises you to simply keep drinking tap water in Berlin.
Why Berlin in particular?
Berliner Wasserbetriebe reported a value of 7.6 ng/l for the sum of 20 PFAS. We don't have local background facts for this area yet. We're working on getting more information.
* Sum of 4 PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS). Source: Analysendaten der Wasserwerke - Berliner Wasserbetriebe (31-12-2025). Levels may vary by neighbourhood and by measurement.
What is PFAS?
PFAS is a large group of man-made substances. They are found in many things you use every day.
- Non-stick pans
- Rain jackets and outdoor clothing
- Food packaging
- Cosmetics and firefighting foam
Why is it called a ‘forever chemical’?
- PFAS hardly break down in nature.
- They enter rivers and groundwater through factories and products.
- That water is also used to make drinking water.
- They stay in your body for a long time.
Why PFAS deserves attention
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), many people in Europe take in more PFAS than is good for their health. This comes mainly from food, but also from drinking water.
It builds up
Your body clears PFAS only slowly. Small amounts add up over the years.
Effect on your immune system
According to EFSA, even small amounts of PFAS can make your immune system work less well.
A stricter limit is coming
From 2028, the limit for 4 PFAS combined will be 20 nanograms per litre. Below you can read more.
Two limits: now and from 2028
The German Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV) has two PFAS limits:
- Since 12 January 2026: a maximum of 100 nanograms per litre for 20 PFAS combined.
- From 12 January 2028: also a maximum of 20 nanograms per litre for 4 PFAS combined (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA and PFHxS).
The second limit is stricter because, according to EFSA, these four PFAS matter most for your health.
Good to know
- Tap water must meet the legal PFAS limit. Your water supplier can tell you the latest results for your area.
- PFAS levels differ per supply area, depending on the source of the drinking water.
- Boiling does not remove PFAS from your water.
ZeroWater filters PFAS
ZeroWater is certified to reduce PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known PFAS. It is an easy extra step you can take at home.
less PFAS in your water
This percentage applies to PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known and most studied PFAS. The ZeroWater 5-stage filter has been tested for these to the NSF/ANSI 53 standard and certified by the independent institute IAPMO. View the certificate.
Tested, certified
Not a promise, but an independently tested result. Tested with far more PFOA and PFOS than is found in German tap water.
More than just PFAS
The filter is also certified for lead, chromium-6, mercury and chlorine. That makes your water taste purer too.
See it for yourself 000 PPM
Every jug comes with a TDS meter. It shows how pure your water is. Does it show 006? Then it's time for a new filter.
Start filtering right away
Choose the jug that suits your household. A filter is included, so you can filter your first jug of tap water straight away.
1.7 litresZeroWater 1.7 litre jug
Compact and light. Fits in most fridge doors. Handy for 1 or 2 people.
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4.7 litresZeroWater 4.7 litre jug
More water in one go. For families who drink a lot and want to refill less often.
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5.4 litresZeroWater 5.4 litre dispenser
With a tap. Put it in the fridge or on the counter and pour your water whenever you like.
Add to cartView product →Questions about PFAS in Berlin
Can I still drink the tap water in Berlin?
Yes. The tap water in Berlin meets the legal limit. Berliner Wasserbetriebe measured 7.6 ng/l for the sum of 20 PFAS. The legal limit is 100 ng/l. From 2028, a second limit of 20 ng/l for the sum of 4 PFAS will also apply. Your water supplier can tell you the latest results for your area.
What is the legal limit for PFAS in drinking water in Germany?
Since 12 January 2026, the legal limit is 100 ng/l for the sum of 20 PFAS. From 2028, an additional limit of 20 ng/l for the sum of 4 PFAS will also apply. These are legal limits. Tap water must meet them.
Does ZeroWater filter all PFAS?
The honest answer: ZeroWater is certified for PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known PFAS. There are thousands of types of PFAS. We have no certificate for the other types, so we don't make any promises about them.
Does the TDS meter show how much PFAS is in my water?
No. The meter measures dissolved solids such as limescale and metals. PFAS are present in such tiny amounts that a TDS meter can't measure them. The meter does help you see when your filter is used up: when it shows 006, replace your filter.
Does boiling or bottled water help?
Boiling does not remove PFAS from water. Bottled water is not a real solution either: it is expensive and creates a lot of plastic waste. A filter on your regular tap water is a simpler alternative.
Where does PFAS in drinking water come from?
PFAS end up in the environment through factories, firefighting foam and products. Through rivers and soil, they reach the water used to make drinking water. That is why drinking water made from river water often contains more PFAS than drinking water made from groundwater.
How often should I replace the filter?
That depends on your tap water. The harder your water, the faster the filter fills up. Test your water with the TDS meter: when it shows 006, it's time for a new filter.
Know what you drink
Just tap water, but with less PFOA and PFOS — for you and your family in Berlin.
Shop ZeroWater Replacement filters- EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) – PFAS in food, scientific opinion 2020. efsa.europa.eu
- German Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV 2023). gesetze-im-internet.de
- EU Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184 (PFAS standard in force since 12 January 2026). eur-lex.europa.eu
- Analysendaten der Wasserwerke - Berliner Wasserbetriebe View the source
- ZeroWater Performance Data Sheet, IAPMO certification to NSF/ANSI 53 and 42. View PDF
ZeroWater is certified for the reduction of PFOA and PFOS. Results were achieved under laboratory conditions; actual results may vary.