Best Water Filters for PFAS Removal: What Actually Works
Which filter technologies remove PFAS and how to verify certification.
Not all filters remove PFAS
Standard carbon pitcher filters (like basic Brita models) do not reliably remove PFAS. The technologies proven effective are: granular activated carbon (GAC) with sufficient contact time, carbon block filters, reverse osmosis (RO), and specialized ion exchange resins. The key differentiator is contact time. PFAS molecules require longer exposure to carbon than chlorine does.
What certification to look for
NSF/ANSI P473 is the only standard specifically testing for PFAS reduction. It tests for PFOS and PFOA removal to below 70 ppt. The newer NSF 53 update also covers some PFAS. Any filter claiming PFAS removal without P473 or NSF 53 certification should be viewed skeptically.
Best options by type
Under-sink RO: Highest removal rate (95-99%). Best for drinking/cooking water. $150-400 installed. Under-sink carbon block: Good removal (90-95%). Lower waste water than RO. $100-300. Whole-house GAC: Moderate removal, treats all water. $800-2,000. Requires filter changes. Pitchers: Only select models with P473 certification. Clearly Filtered and Epic Pure are certified. Basic Brita is not. Learn more about PFAS.