What Are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals that have been used in a variety of consumer products over the past few decades. They are commonly found in products such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. These chemicals have also been discovered in drinking water sources across the United States.

The Health Risks of PFAS

Research has shown that exposure to PFAS can have serious health effects. Some of the health risks associated with exposure to PFAS include cancer, thyroid problems, and decreased fertility. As a result, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has established a health advisory level of 70 parts per trillion for two of the most common PFAS found in drinking water: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS).

Can Water Treatment Plants Remove PFAS?

Many communities with elevated levels of PFAS in their drinking water are turning to water treatment plants for help. The question is: can water treatment plants effectively remove PFAS from drinking water? The short answer is yes, but it depends on the type of treatment method used.

The Different Types of Water Treatment Plants

There are several types of water treatment plants, and each uses a different method to remove contaminants from drinking water. Some of the most common types of water treatment plants include:

Coagulation and flocculation

Sedimentation

Filtration

Disinfection

Reverse osmosis

Which Water Treatment Methods Work Best for PFAS?

Research has shown that certain water treatment methods are more effective than others for removing PFAS from drinking water. For example, activated carbon filtration has proven to be one of the most effective methods for removing PFAS from drinking water. Reverse osmosis has also shown promising results. However, not all water treatment plants have the capacity or infrastructure to implement these methods.

The Importance of Monitoring Your Drinking Water

If you are concerned about PFAS in your drinking water, it is important to monitor its quality regularly. Many community water systems are required to report the results of their water testing to their customers, so check with your local water provider to find out how you can access this information. If you use a private well, you can have your water tested by a certified laboratory. If you discover that your drinking water contains high levels of PFAS, consider investing in a home water treatment system that is designed specifically to remove these chemicals.

Conclusion

PFAS are a serious health threat, and it is important to take steps to ensure that your drinking water is safe. While water treatment plants can effectively remove PFAS from drinking water, it is important to monitor your water quality and take action if necessary.