Understanding Forever Chemicals in Your Water

What are Forever Chemicals? "Forever chemicals," or PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used since the 1940s. They are notorious for their persistence in the environment and human body, leading to widespread contamination.

Sources of PFAS

PFAS are found in:

• Non-stick cookware
• Water-repellent fabrics
• Cleaning products
• Firefighting foams

Health Risks

Exposure to PFAS can lead to several health issues, including:

• Increased cholesterol levels
• Liver enzyme abnormalities
• Higher risk of thyroid disease
• Reduced vaccine effectiveness in children
• Elevated risk of certain cancers (e.g., kidney and testicular cancers)
  

Why It Matters

Due to their durability and potential health impacts, PFAS contamination in drinking water is a major concern. This drives regulatory actions and remediation efforts to ensure safe water supplies.

For more information on how to protect your water, check the information below.

• Activated Carbon Filters (POU)
• Effective for small-scale, point-of-use systems.
• Removes PFAS by adsorption as water passes through carbon granules.
• Reverse Osmosis Systems (POU)
• Utilizes a semi-permeable membrane to remove PFAS and other contaminants.
• Suitable for under-sink installations in homes or offices.
• Ion Exchange Resins (POU/Whole Home)
• Captures PFAS by exchanging ions with those in water.
• Can be installed at point-of-entry for whole-home protection.
• High-Efficiency Granular Activated Carbon (Whole Home)
• Larger systems using activated carbon for treating all water entering a residence.
• Highly effective for reducing a wide range of PFAS compounds.
• Nanofiltration Systems (Whole Home)
• Similar to reverse osmosis but uses slightly larger pores, offering a balance between water flow and contaminant removal.
• Reduces PFAS along with other unwanted substances.
• Ozone and Advanced Oxidation Processes (Commercial)
• Breaks down PFAS using ozone or combinations of oxidants and UV light.
• Typically used for larger scale or municipal water treatment facilities.

Each technology has its own advantages and is suited to specific use cases, from individual homes to large-scale industrial applications. For more detailed guidance on the right solution for your needs, give our office a call for your free estimate.