What You Need to Know about PFAS Contamination

What You Need to Know about PFAS Contamination

Let's talk about PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," which have garnered significant attention from the EPA due to their widespread presence in drinking water across the US, sparking nationwide headlines. Here's what you should know:

What Are PFAS and Forever Chemicals?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also dubbed "Forever Chemicals," encompass thousands of manufactured chemicals utilized in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. Their persistent nature in the environment and widespread usage have resulted in their detection in the bloodstream of individuals and animals worldwide. Notably, chemicals like PFOA and PFOS, extensively studied and phased out in recent years, highlight potential health risks.

PFAS Health Risks

• Recent peer-reviewed studies reveal that exposure to certain PFAS levels may lead to various health issues, including:
• Reproductive and developmental effects
• Increased cancer risks
• Immune system suppression
• Hormonal disruptions
• Elevated cholesterol levels

PFAS in My Water?

The EPA's ongoing research on PFAS underscores its significance. While a health advisory level was set in 2016 at 70 ppt for PFOA and PFOS, the EPA aims to establish national drinking water standards. The proposed 2023 standard suggests limits of 4 ppt for both PFOA and PFOS.

A 2023 USGS survey indicates that approximately 45% of the nation's tap water contains PFAS. Public water systems may test and report PFAS levels (though not all do), and private well users should conduct their own tests.


How Can You Protect Your Water?

For those with PFAS-contaminated water, solutions like activated carbon and reverse osmosis membrane filtration offer effective removal.

While the EPA works on setting public water standards, in-home water treatment, particularly reverse osmosis systems, provides immediate protection. The USWF Tankless RO incorporates both carbon and reverse osmosis membrane filtration, ensuring optimal PFAS removal at the residential level. If you already have a whole home system installed, we have a PFAS replacement filter kit that pairs a premium US-made sediment prefilter with a Pentek NSF-certified PFAS reduction filter.