In our last blog post, we took a deep dive into the hidden risks of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) in tap water, explaining their potential impact on human health and why homeowners should be concerned. Now that you’re familiar with the basics, this follow-up post will explore what steps you can take to further protect your family from PFAS contamination and ensure your tap water is safe to drink.

This post will cover more details on where PFAS come from, how to identify if they are in your water, the latest government efforts to regulate these chemicals, and what you can do at home to filter PFAS out of your water. Let's break it down in a way that’s easy to follow so you can take action with confidence.

A Quick Recap: What Are PFAS?

PFAS are synthetic (man-made) chemicals that have been used in products like non-stick pans, water-resistant clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foams since the 1940s. These chemicals are very durable, which is why they’ve earned the nickname “forever chemicals.” They don’t break down in the environment, meaning they stay in our air, soil, and water for a long time.

Since PFAS have been used in so many different products, they have made their way into water supplies across the country. Unfortunately, most people can’t tell if PFAS are in their water because they don’t have a smell or taste, and they are invisible to the naked eye. But just because you can’t see them doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Over time, exposure to PFAS can pose serious health risks, including cancer, immune system problems, and developmental delays in children.

Where Do PFAS Come From?

To understand how PFAS get into your water supply, it helps to know where these chemicals are used. PFAS are commonly found in:

• Non-stick cookware: The chemicals that make pans “non-stick” often contain PFAS.
• Water-repellent clothing: Rain jackets, outdoor gear, and some athletic clothes use PFAS to repel water.
• Food packaging: Grease-resistant packaging like fast-food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags may contain PFAS.
• Firefighting foam: PFAS are often found in firefighting foam, which is used at airports and military bases.
• Industrial waste: Factories that use PFAS in their manufacturing processes can release them into the environment.

Over time, PFAS can leach into groundwater, rivers, lakes, and eventually into the water that reaches your home. If your area is near an industrial site, military base, or airport, your water is at a higher risk of PFAS contamination.

How to Know If PFAS Are in Your Water

PFAS are becoming more well-known, but many people still don’t know whether they’re present in their local water supply. Here’s how you can find out:

1. Check Your Local Water Quality Report:
   Every year, public water systems are required to release a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) or water quality report. This report tells you what contaminants have been found in your local water supply, including PFAS if it’s been tested for. If you don’t see any mention of PFAS, contact your water provider and ask if testing has been done recently.
2. Order a Water Testing Kit:
   You can purchase a water testing kit to check for PFAS in your home’s water. These kits require you to collect a sample of tap water and send it to a certified lab for analysis. Once the lab tests your sample, they’ll send you results showing whether PFAS are present and at what levels.
3. Hire a Professional:
   If you want the most thorough results, consider contacting Dupure to perform water test to inspect your home’s water for PFAS and other contaminants. They have access to more advanced testing tools and can give you more detailed information about the quality of your water.

How Does the Government Regulate PFAS?

In recent years, concerns over PFAS have grown, and there have been efforts to regulate their presence in drinking water. However, the laws and regulations around PFAS are still developing, and they vary depending on where you live.

1. EPA Guidelines:
   In 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set a health advisory limit for PFAS in drinking water at 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for two common types of PFAS—PFOA and PFOS. However, this is just a guideline, not an enforceable rule, meaning water systems don’t have to meet this level.
2. State Regulations:
   Some states have taken matters into their own hands and set stricter regulations on PFAS. For example, states like Michigan, New Jersey, and Vermont have set maximum contaminant levels that are much lower than the EPA’s guidelines. These states are leading the way in protecting residents from PFAS exposure.
3. What’s on the Horizon:
   There is growing pressure on the federal government to set enforceable limits for PFAS in drinking water. In 2021, the Biden administration introduced the PFAS Strategic Roadmap, which aims to expand testing, introduce new regulations, and provide funding for cleaning up PFAS contamination. While these changes are still being worked on, the hope is that stronger regulations will soon be in place nationwide.

How Can You Protect Your Family from PFAS?

Since PFAS are difficult to avoid, taking steps to protect your family’s water supply is key. Luckily, there are several water filtration methods that can effectively reduce or eliminate PFAS from your home’s tap water. Here are some of the most reliable solutions:

1. Activated Carbon Filters
   Activated carbon is one of the most effective materials for removing PFAS from water. It works by attracting and trapping the chemicals as the water passes through the filter. You can find activated carbon filters in faucet-mounted filters, under-sink systems, and even water pitcher filters.

However, not all activated carbon filters are the same. Some are designed specifically to remove PFAS, while others are not. Always check whether the filter you’re considering is certified to reduce PFAS contamination.

1. Reverse Osmosis Systems
   Reverse osmosis (RO) systems use a semipermeable membrane to filter out contaminants from water, including PFAS. Water is forced through the membrane, which captures harmful chemicals and leaves you with purified water. RO systems are highly effective, but they do waste some water in the process, which is something to keep in mind.

Dupure offers reverse osmosis systems that can be installed under your sink to provide safe drinking water for your family. These systems are great for removing PFAS as well as other harmful substances like lead and chlorine.

1. Whole-House Filtration Systems
   If you want to ensure that all the water in your home is filtered, a whole-house filtration system may be the best option. These systems are installed at the point where water enters your home, so every faucet, shower, and appliance will have access to filtered water. Dupure’s whole-house filtration systems are designed to tackle PFAS along with other common contaminants, providing you with peace of mind.

Why Taking Action Matters

You may be wondering, “Is it really necessary to invest in a water filtration system for PFAS?” The answer depends on where you live and your personal concerns about water quality, but for many homeowners, the risks of PFAS exposure make filtration a smart investment.

Here’s why taking action matters:

• Health Risks Are Significant: Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health issues like cancer, liver damage, thyroid problems, and developmental delays in children. Reducing your family’s exposure to PFAS can help protect them from these risks.
• PFAS Stay in Your Body for a Long Time: Once PFAS enter your body, they don’t leave easily. This means that even small amounts of exposure over time can build up and cause harm. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can reduce your family’s overall exposure to PFAS.
• Regulations Are Catching Up: As awareness of PFAS continues to grow, it’s likely that regulations will become stricter in the near future. By taking steps now to filter PFAS out of your water, you’ll be ahead of the curve and better prepared to protect your family in the long term.

FAQs About PFAS and Water Filtration

1. Do Brita filters remove PFAS?
   Not all Brita filters are designed to remove PFAS. You’ll need to look for filters that specifically target these chemicals. Some water pitchers and faucet-mounted filters are certified to reduce PFAS levels, so make sure to read the product details before purchasing.
2. How often should I change my water filter?
   The lifespan of a water filter depends on the type of system you have. For activated carbon filters, you may need to change them every 2-3 months, while reverse osmosis systems typically require membrane changes once a year. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure your filter continues to work effectively.
3. Can boiling water remove PFAS?
   No, boiling water does not remove PFAS. In fact, boiling water can concentrate PFAS, making the contamination worse. To remove PFAS, you’ll need to use a filtration system designed to target these chemicals.
4. Should I use bottled water instead of tap water?
   While bottled water may seem like a safer alternative, it’s not always free of PFAS. Some bottled water brands have been found to contain PFAS, and plastic bottles can also be harmful to the environment. Investing in a home water filtration system is a more sustainable and reliable option.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Family from PFAS

PFAS contamination in tap water is a serious concern, but there are steps you can take to protect your family. By staying informed, testing your water, and investing in a quality water filtration system, you can significantly reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals.

At Dupure, we’re here to help you find the right filtration solution for your home. Whether you need a reverse osmosis system for drinking water or a whole-house filter to protect your entire household, we have the expertise to guide you through the process.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you protect your family from the hidden dangers of PFAS in your tap water. Don’t wait—take action now to ensure your water is safe and clean for years to come.

What's In Your Water?

Find out how clean your water is (or isn’t) with our Free Water Assessment, and learn more about the Dupure water filtration, conditioning and softening systems that will help you make your house a safer, healthier home.

Book Your H20 Assessment