How to Get Rid of PFAS Chemicals in Water

What Is PFAS?

PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s because of their useful properties. There are thousands of different PFAS, with Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) being two of the most widely used and studied chemicals in the PFAS group. In recent years, the United States has replaced PFOA and PFOS with other PFAS.

On April 10, 2024, EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS to protect communities from exposure to harmful PFAS.

epa image of east palestine train derailment and explosion

river contaminated by chemical pollutants

How Does PFAS Get Into Water?

Recent studies have revealed that PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," are present in South Florida's rainwater. This finding underscores the extensive environmental distribution of PFAS, highlighting their ability to enter water sources through atmospheric deposition. Such widespread contamination poses significant challenges for maintaining safe drinking water supplies.

How Can PFAS Affect People’s Health?

PFAS, the "forever chemicals," persist in the environment and can accumulate in the human body, posing potential risks. The health hazards of PFAS include increased cholesterol levels, hormone disruption, reproductive effects, pregnancy complications, immune system impairment, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

Over 98% of the US population has been found to have four types of PFAS (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS) in their bloodstream (serum). These long-chain PFAS compounds have the ability to accumulate and persist in the human body for many years. Even after exposure is reduced or stopped, the levels of these substances decrease at a slow rate over time.

a water inspector detecting the pollutants in a river

Is Your Drinking Water Safe？

The number of U.S. communities confirmed to be contaminated with the highly toxic fluorinated compounds known as PFAS continues to grow at an alarming rate. As of August 2024, PFAS found at 7,457 sites in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and four territories.

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*The data is sourced from the official website of EWG (Environmental Working Group).

Insights From Official Sources and Experts

How Can I Protect Myself and My Family From PFAS?

Researchers from Duke University and N.C. State University tested 76 home water filtration systems for their efficiency in reducing PFAS. The study found that reverse osmosis works the best compared to other often used filter systems on the market. Minnesota Department of Health confirms that filters with activated carbon or reverse osmosis membranes are effective in removing PFAS from water supplies.

Reverse osmosis membranes have 0.0001-micron pores, allowing water molecules to pass while blocking PFAS and contaminants, providing cleaner and safer drinking water for your family.