If you’ve been hearing more about PFAS in drinking water, you’re not alone.  Indeed, these “forever chemicals” have made headlines across the country for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. But what exactly is PFAS, how does it end up in your water supply, and- most importantly- what can you do about it?

WHAT ARE PFAS & WHERE ARE THEY

To begin with, PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, a group of more than 10,000 man-made chemicals that have been used since the 1940s.  Furthermore, these substances are incredibly resistant to heat, oil, water, and stains, making them useful in non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, fast food wrappers and packaging, stain-resistant carpets and upholstery, and firefighting foams.

WHY ARE THEY “FOREVER CHEMICALS?

One of the most concerning aspects of PFAS is that, unfortunately, they don’t break down easily in the body or the environment.  As a result, that’s why they’re called “forever chemicals.”  Furthermore, PFAS chemicals have contaminated the environment due to industrial use and waste disposal.  Consequently, they can travel through soil and groundwater, eventually ending up in public water supplies, private wells, and bodies of water.  These water-soluble substances can linger for years, accumulating in the body and posing health risks from contaminated drinking water.

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR YOUR HOME

The good news is that effective treatment options are available to reduce PFAS in your drinking water.  For instance, reverse osmosis systems are the most effective for filtering PFAS and other harmful contaminants.   Indeed, these systems can remove up to 99% of PFAS and filter out other harmful contaminants. An R/O system consists of three stages of filtration. First, a pre-filter captures larger particles like dirt and rust. Next, the RO membrane serves as the primary filter, pushing water through a thin, semi-permeable layer to provide pure water. Finally, a carbon filter removes tastes and odors, similar to a pitcher filter.  Therefore, look for systems certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58 for effective PFAS reduction in drinking water.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Next, stay informed and install a Certified Filtration System.  If you have a private well, testing for PFAS can be costly, as each compound must be tested separately. On the other hand, for those with a public water supply, contact your supplier for the Consumer Confidence Report on minerals and contaminants. Notably, water suppliers must provide this report by July 1st each year, and it’s often available online.

CONCLUSION

In short, PFAS contamination is a serious issue, but it’s one you can take action on.  By knowing what PFAS are, how they enter water, and how to remove them, you can safeguard your health and home.  Therefore, contact us today for expert advice and reliable water treatment solutions.