Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are persistent organic pollutants that can be found in our environment and have been linked to a variety of health problems. But what are these “forever chemicals” exactly, and how do we test for them?
Read on to find out the truth about PFAS and how you can protect yourself from their dangers.
In this article you’ll learn:
- PFAS are a class of man-made chemicals commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment
- Homeowners can easily purchase testing kits online or through their local health department for more comprehensive results
- Activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems are both effective at removing PFAS from drinking water
- Avoid products with nonstick or waterproof coatings, choose natural fibers instead of synthetic fabrics, be aware of potential contamination in food packaging, look for personal care items labeled “PFAS-free” and monitor local water sources for potential contamination
- Testing your drinking water is an important step in reducing exposure and protecting your family’s health
For more helpful resources, check out the full Home Safety collection
What is PFAS?
PFAS, or Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a class of man-made chemicals commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment. PFAS chemicals are used in a wide variety of consumer products and industrial processes, including nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foams. These chemicals have been linked to serious health risks such as cancer, thyroid issues, and developmental problems in fetuses and children.
Testing for PFAS
Given the potential health impacts associated with PFAS, it is important to regularly test your drinking water for these chemicals. Homeowners can easily purchase testing kits online or through their local health department. For more comprehensive results, homeowners should consider contacting a qualified lab and having the samples sent to them. These tests are often more expensive but offer greater accuracy and detail in the results.
Which Water Filtration Systems Work Best for PFAS?
When it comes to removing PFAS from drinking water, the most effective option is using an activated carbon filter, says Ava Martin from QualityWaterlab. Activated carbon filters are designed to absorb these chemicals, making them an ideal choice for residential home use.
Additionally, reverse osmosis systems are the best choice for removing PFAS from drinking water. Reverse osmosis systems use a membrane to filter out contaminants, which makes them an effective option for removing these chemicals.
Ava also mentions that “activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems are both extremely effective at removing PFAS from drinking water when combined. However, it’s important to note that not all filters are created equal. Homeowners should always check the labels of their filtration systems to ensure that they are certified to reduce PFAS.”
How Does Activated Carbon Reduce PFAS?
Activated carbon works by trapping the PFAS molecules, which are then removed from the water when the filter is changed. Activated carbon filters can be used for both point-of-use and point-of-entry applications, depending on the specific needs of your household.
However, it’s important to note that some activated carbon filters may still allow small amounts of PFAS molecules to pass through. To ensure better results, consider using an additional filtration system in tandem with the activated carbon filter for maximum protection.
How Does Reverse Osmosis Work?
Reverse osmosis systems use a semi-permeable membrane to block particles and chemicals from entering the water supply. This method is extremely effective at removing PFAS from drinking water, as it traps these molecules in the pressurized system and prevents them from passing through into your tap.
Most families that are concerned with PFAS often combine a whole-home water filtration system with a reverse osmosis system in their kitchen to provide the best results in eliminating PFAS.
Costs and Maintenance
The cost of a water filtration system for PFAS varies greatly depending on the type and quality of the unit. Generally, activated carbon filters are more affordable, but require regular replacement to ensure optimal performance. Reverse osmosis systems tend to be more expensive upfront but offer long-term savings due to their higher efficiency.
How Can I Reduce My Exposure To PFAS?
In addition to testing and filtering your water, there are other steps you can take to reduce your exposure to PFAS.
- Avoid products with nonstick or waterproof coatings
- Choose natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and linen instead of synthetic fabrics
- Be aware of the potential for PFAS contamination in food packaging
- Look for personal care items that are labeled “PFAS-free”
- Monitor local water sources for potential contamination
Conclusion
PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are a class of man-made chemicals that have been linked to serious health risks. Testing your drinking water for these chemicals is an important step in reducing exposure and protecting your family’s health. Additionally, using an activated carbon filter or reverse osmosis system can help reduce the levels of PFAS in your drinking water.
For more helpful resources, check out the full Home Safety collection