In our previous post, we introduced the dangers of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) in tap water and discussed the importance of understanding this pressing issue. While awareness of PFAS contamination is growing, many homeowners still have questions about the long-term health risks and the most effective ways to protect their families from exposure.

This follow-up blog post will take a deeper dive into the complexities of PFAS contamination, examining the health risks in more detail, the role that government regulations play, and the most effective water filtration methods to safeguard your household. If you’re concerned about PFAS in your water supply, this post will provide the practical knowledge you need to take action and protect your family.

A Quick Recap: What Are PFAS?

As a refresher, PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used since the 1940s in various consumer and industrial products, including non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foams. These chemicals are incredibly resistant to heat, water, and oil, making them useful but highly persistent in the environment.

Because PFAS do not easily break down, they accumulate in the environment and in our bodies. This persistence has earned them the nickname "forever chemicals," and their presence in water supplies across the country is a growing public health concern.

Health Risks of PFAS Exposure: What the Science Says

The long-term health risks associated with PFAS exposure are well-documented in scientific research. Even though the full extent of their effects is still being studied, several health issues have been strongly linked to PFAS exposure. Here are the most concerning health risks:

1. Cancer Risks
   Studies have shown that exposure to certain types of PFAS, especially PFOA and PFOS, is linked to an increased risk of kidney, liver, and testicular cancers. These chemicals have been classified as “likely carcinogenic” to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) due to their ability to damage DNA and disrupt cellular processes.
2. Endocrine Disruption
   PFAS have been identified as endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with the body’s hormonal systems. This disruption can lead to problems with reproductive health, including reduced fertility, pregnancy complications, and developmental issues in children. It can also affect thyroid hormone levels, which regulate metabolism and energy levels.
3. Immune System Impairment
   Long-term exposure to PFAS can weaken the immune system, leaving the body more vulnerable to infections. Some studies have also suggested that PFAS exposure may reduce the effectiveness of vaccines, which is a major concern for children and vulnerable populations.
4. Metabolic Issues
   PFAS exposure has been linked to elevated cholesterol levels and an increased risk of metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes. This can lead to other health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and stroke.
5. Developmental Delays in Children
   Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to PFAS exposure. Research has shown that PFAS can cause low birth weight, developmental delays, and behavioral problems in children who were exposed in utero or during early childhood. PFAS have also been linked to a higher risk of preterm birth.
6. Liver and Kidney Damage
   The liver and kidneys are particularly sensitive to PFAS exposure, as these organs are responsible for filtering toxins from the body. Prolonged exposure to PFAS can lead to liver damage, kidney disease, and even liver cancer.

Are PFAS in Your Water? Testing Is Key

One of the most important steps any homeowner can take is determining whether PFAS are present in their water supply. Since PFAS are colorless, odorless, and tasteless, contamination can go unnoticed without proper testing. Here’s how you can find out if your water is affected:

1. Review Your Local Water Quality Report
   Public water systems are required to provide annual water quality reports, also known as Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs). These reports detail the levels of contaminants, including any PFAS that may be present. If your report doesn’t provide enough information about PFAS, contact your local water utility for further details.
2. Consider At-Home Water Testing Kits
   If you are concerned about PFAS in your home’s water but live in an area where water testing is limited, you can purchase an at-home PFAS testing kit. These kits involve collecting a water sample and sending it to a certified laboratory for analysis. The results will show whether PFAS are present and in what concentrations.
3. Hire a Professional Testing Service
   For more accurate and comprehensive results, consider hiring a professional water testing service. They can provide more thorough assessments and recommend the most effective ways to reduce contamination.

Government Regulations on PFAS: Where Do We Stand?

Regulation of PFAS in drinking water has been slow to develop, even as research continues to reveal the health risks associated with these chemicals. Let’s take a closer look at the current regulatory landscape in the U.S.

1. EPA’s Health Advisory Levels
   In 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a health advisory level of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for two types of PFAS—PFOA and PFOS—in drinking water. However, these are non-enforceable guidelines, meaning public water systems are not legally required to meet this threshold.
2. State-Level Regulations
   Several states have introduced their own, more stringent regulations on PFAS in drinking water. For example, Michigan, New Jersey, and Vermont have set much lower limits for PFAS than the EPA’s advisory level, with some states aiming for maximum contaminant levels as low as 8 ppt. These state-level regulations serve as an example for other states that have yet to take action.
3. Recent Developments
   In recent years, pressure has been mounting on the federal government to introduce enforceable limits on PFAS in drinking water. The PFAS Action Act, proposed in Congress, aims to establish legally enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for PFAS chemicals and provide funding for PFAS cleanup efforts. While the legislation is still being debated, it marks a significant step toward regulating these harmful chemicals.
4. The Biden Administration’s PFAS Roadmap
   In 2021, the Biden Administration announced a comprehensive plan to tackle PFAS contamination, including stricter regulations, expanded testing, and increased funding for research and cleanup efforts. This initiative is expected to result in more robust federal regulations for PFAS in drinking water, though implementation could take time.

Effective Water Filtration Solutions for PFAS

While regulatory efforts are underway, many homeowners are choosing to take matters into their own hands by installing water filtration systems designed to reduce or eliminate PFAS from their tap water. Here are some of the most effective water filtration solutions:

1. Activated Carbon Filters
   Activated carbon filtration is one of the most effective methods for removing PFAS from drinking water. The porous structure of activated carbon attracts and traps PFAS molecules, preventing them from passing through. Many home water filtration systems, including faucet filters and whole-house systems, use activated carbon to reduce PFAS levels.
2. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
   Reverse osmosis is another highly effective method for removing PFAS from water. RO systems use a semipermeable membrane to filter out contaminants, including PFAS, from the water supply. Dupure offers reverse osmosis systems that are designed to remove a wide range of contaminants, including PFAS, providing your family with clean, safe drinking water.
3. Whole-House Filtration Systems
   For comprehensive protection, a whole-house filtration system can be installed at the point where water enters your home. These systems filter all the water that flows through your taps, ensuring that PFAS are removed from both drinking water and water used for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. Dupure offers advanced whole-house filtration systems that target PFAS, as well as other common contaminants like chlorine and heavy metals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About PFAS in Tap Water

1. Can boiling water remove PFAS?
   No, boiling water does not remove PFAS. In fact, boiling water can concentrate PFAS, making the contamination worse. To effectively reduce PFAS levels, it is important to use a water filtration system designed to target these chemicals.
2. Are PFAS only found in drinking water?
   While drinking water is one of the most common sources of PFAS exposure, these chemicals can also be found in other products, such as food packaging, non-stick cookware, and personal care items. It’s important to be aware of other sources of exposure and minimize contact where possible.
3. How do I know if my water filter removes PFAS?
   Not all water filters are capable of removing PFAS. Before purchasing a filtration system, check whether it is certified to remove PFAS. Look for filters that use activated carbon, reverse osmosis, or a combination of technologies to effectively reduce PFAS contamination.
4. Is bottled water safer than tap water?
   While bottled water may seem like a safer alternative to tap water, it is not always guaranteed to be free of PFAS. Some bottled water brands have been found to contain PFAS, and bottled water is subject to less stringent regulations than tap water. Installing a high-quality filtration system at home is a more reliable way to ensure your drinking water is safe.

Conclusion: Take Action to Protect Your Family

PFAS contamination in tap water is a serious issue that requires proactive measures from both government agencies and individual homeowners. While regulations are still evolving, homeowners can take steps now to protect their families from the harmful effects of PFAS exposure.

At Dupure, we are committed to helping you find the best water filtration solutions for your home. Whether you’re looking for an under-sink reverse osmosis system or a whole-house filtration unit, our team of experts can guide you through the process of selecting, installing, and maintaining the right system for your needs.

Don’t wait until the regulations catch up to the science—take action today and safeguard your home’s water supply from PFAS contamination. Contact Dupure to learn more about our water filtration solutions and how we can help you protect your family from the hidden dangers of PFAS in tap water.