PFAS in Drinking Water: What You Need to Know
PFAS forever chemicals are in the drinking water of over 100 million Americans. What they are, where they come from, and what actually removes them.
PFAS are called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of thousands of synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s in non-stick coatings, waterproof fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foam. They are called "forever chemicals" because they do not degrade in the environment or the human body.
In April 2024, the EPA set the first-ever national drinking water standards for six PFAS compounds, with maximum contaminant levels as low as 4 parts per trillion. Previously, there were no enforceable federal limits.
Where PFAS contamination comes from
The most common sources of PFAS in drinking water are military bases (where AFFF firefighting foam was used), industrial facilities (chemical manufacturing, electroplating), wastewater treatment plants, and landfills. Contamination can travel miles from the source through groundwater.
What removes PFAS
Not all water filters remove PFAS. The technologies that work are: activated carbon filtration (granular or block), reverse osmosis, and ion exchange resins specifically designed for PFAS. Standard sediment filters, UV treatment, and boiling do NOT remove PFAS. Look for NSF P473 certification, which specifically tests for PFAS reduction.