Nearly half of the tap water in the U.S. contains PFAS, which are harmful chemicals commonly found in various products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foam.
PFAS, prevalent mostly on the East Coast, are dubbed ‘forever chemicals’ because they persist in nature and our bodies, leading to serious health issues like certain cancers, thyroid disorders, and developmental problems in children.
Currently, there are no federal limits on PFAS in drinking water, although the EPA is considering implementing some, and states like New Jersey have already established their own regulations.
Individuals with private wells must take responsibility for testing and purifying their water, as these wells are not covered by government regulations. Consequently, some people opt for bottled water as a seemingly safer alternative, despite its potential environmental impact and higher cost.
In response to this issue, experts recommend using the best whole house water filter for PFAS, specifically designed to remove PFAS. This proactive approach offers a cost-effective solution, especially when compared to waiting for city water systems to be updated or for prolonged legal disputes to be settled.
Is It Necessary to Test Water for PFAS?
If you’re wondering whether you should test your water for PFAS, here’s what you need to know. PFAS are chemicals that can be harmful to your health, and they can be found in water. Here’s how you can find out if they’re in your water and what you can do:
1. Check Online Resources
If you use public water, your water supplier might already test for PFAS and share the results online. For example, some cities and states with strict rules about water quality provide these test results on their websites.
2. Consumer Confidence Report
Even in places without specific rules for PFAS, water suppliers usually release a yearly report called a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). This report can tell you about the quality of your water, including whether it has PFAS.
3. Private Testing
If you want to be sure and don’t mind spending some money, you can hire a certified company to test your water for PFAS. This can cost a few hundred dollars.
4. Consider Filtration
If testing the water is too expensive, you might choose to use the best whole house water filter for PFAS removal. Investing in the best whole house water filter for PFAS could be a more budget-friendly way to ensure your water is safe.
Why Filter Your Water?
Filtering your water when it comes to harmful contaminants like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). There are various types of water filters available that can help reduce the other contaminants which can severely harm the human body. And with that, it improves the quality of your drinking water.
Types of Technology Used in Whole House Water Filter for PFAS
Testing your water is essential if you’re concerned about contaminants like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). There are several best whole house water filters for PFAS on the market, which can effectively reduce contaminants.
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)
GAC technology, recognized as the best whole house water filter for PFAS, uses a special type of carbon called activated carbon to purify water. This carbon is very porous, featuring numerous tiny holes that enable it to trap contaminants such as PFAS, chlorine, and also reduces lead.
As water passes through, contaminants stick to the activated carbon in these countertop filters, effectively allowing GAC to remove them. However, it’s important to understand that GAC filters were not originally engineered specifically for PFAS removal. Additionally, these filters do not strip out beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, or chloride, which are essential for health.
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
RO systems work using a special membrane that acts like a very fine sieve. This membrane lets water through but stops larger molecules and contaminants like PFAS. An RO system is quite powerful and can remove nearly all types of contaminants from water. This makes it a more thorough option compared to GAC.
Advances in Technology For Whole House Water Filter
Although GAC and RO systems are widely used, they were not created with the specific intention of removing PFAS. Researchers are now developing new filtration technologies aimed specifically at targeting these “forever chemicals.” These advancements promise more effective solutions for ensuring clean and safe drinking water.
How to Identify NSF Certified Filters
When selecting the best whole house water filter for PFAS, ensure the filter is labeled “NSF P473” or “NSF Certified to Standard P473.” This label should be visible on the product, its packaging, or in the product specifications. This certification confirms that the filter meets rigorous standards. It is certified to reduce PFOS and PFOA concentrations in water to below the EPA’s advisory levels.
Availability and Assistance
Filters can be purchased from various retailers. Additionally, residents with private drinking wells might qualify for a free filter if their local health department or the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reaches out concerning PFAS contamination. Information on how to contact your local health department for assistance can be typically found online.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a reverse osmosis filter involves setting it up directly on your tap. This system uses both carbon-based filters and a reverse osmosis membrane to purify the water.
It’s important to maintain these systems by regularly changing the filters. If the filters are not replaced when needed, they can become saturated. As a result, the concentration of PFAS in your filtered water might even exceed the levels in your tap water.
Typically, carbon filters need to be replaced every six months, while the reverse osmosis membrane can last up to five years. Over their lifetime, the costs of maintaining these filters are relatively comparable.
Best Whole House Water Filter For PFAS
Phountain Water Filtration System
Phountain water filtration system is an exceptional solution made to improve the water quality in your home. It’s designed for medium-sized homes and provides numerous benefits for families of up to five members.
It not only promises luxurious water quality, but does so with the utmost convenience and reliability. Whether it’s for drinking, cooking, or bathing, this system ensures that every water outlet in your home delivers the highest quality water.
For the perfect drinking water experience, you can also reach out to Phountain Water Filters, known for their top-notch water filters. These filters are designed to clean and purify water, making it safer and tastier to drink.
People who use Phountain Water Filters often notice a significant improvement in the taste and quality of their water, making these filters a popular choice for those looking to enhance their daily water intake. Visit www.phountainwaterfilters.com for more information.
