What is PFAS?
Understanding the Impact of “Forever Chemicals” and What You Can Do About Them
By David L. Russell, PE, ASP | Global Environmental Operations
Introduction
If you’ve heard of PFAS—or PerFluoroAlkyl Substances—but don’t quite know what they are or why they matter, you’re not alone. These so-called “forever chemicals” have made headlines across the country because they’re showing up in drinking water, soil, and even in the blood of newborn babies.
PFAS aren’t just an industrial problem—they’re a growing public health concern. And while most articles explain the danger, they rarely help everyday homeowners understand what to do next. That’s what this article is here to do: explain PFAS in plain language, help you understand your local water quality reports, and outline your options if PFAS are detected in your water.
As a licensed Professional Engineer, part of my duty is to protect public health. If you have concerns about PFAS in your water or on your property, I offer free consultations – Contact me.
What is PFAS?
PFAS (PerFluoroAlkyl Substances) are a group of over 15,000 synthetic chemicals used in products like non-stick pans, firefighting foams, waterproof clothing, fast food wrappers, and stain-resistant fabrics. What makes them unique—and dangerous—is the incredibly strong carbon-fluorine bond that prevents them from breaking down in the environment. Once released, they persist for decades in soil, water, and even our bodies.
Studies have found PFAS in nearly every corner of the U.S., and yes—even in umbilical cords of newborns. One 1999 study found that 98% of Americans had detectable levels of PFAS in their blood. These chemicals are linked to serious health risks including:
- Kidney and liver disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Infertility and low birth weight
- Testicular cancer
How Widespread is the Problem?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has created a map showing confirmed PFAS contamination across the U.S.
View the interactive PFAS map here
View the interactive PFAS map hereLight blue dots represent contamination above safe drinking water standards. Orange and purple dots show even more severe cases. You can search by ZIP code to see your area’s exposure.
What Are the Legal Limits?
The EPA’s National Primary Drinking Water Standards were updated in 2024. Here are the current limits for PFAS compounds in drinking water:
| Compound | Max Contaminant Level (mg/L) |
|---|---|
| PFOA & PFOS | 0.000004 |
| PFNA, PFHxS, HFPO-DA | 0.00001 |
| PFBS | 0.002 |
These are incredibly small concentrations—yet still pose measurable health risks. For example, just one gram of PFOA (less than 1/8 teaspoon) can contaminate the entire Niagara River for over a minute【source†Niagara Flow Calculations†】.
These regulations are mandatory by 2029, giving communities time to test and implement treatment systems. In some cases, compliance may extend to 2031.
📄 Learn more from the EPA’s official PFAS guidelines
Step 1: Check Your Consumer Confidence Report
If you’re connected to a public water system (25 or more service connections), your provider is required by law to produce an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). This document outlines water quality data—including any detected PFAS levels.
🧾 You can typically find your CCR on your water utility’s website. If you’re on a private well, consider professional testing.
🧪 PFAS testing is expensive (several hundred dollars), and results can take several weeks. Because PFAS exist at such low concentrations, certified labs use advanced instruments to detect them accurately.
Step 2: What If Your Water Is Contaminated?
If PFAS levels in your water are above EPA standards, you have two immediate options:
- Report it to your state’s environmental agency or the EPA. They may already be tracking regional contamination or have resources for affected households.
- Take action to reduce exposure—especially if you’re pregnant, have children, or live near a known contamination source.
Even if PFAS levels are below regulatory limits, many families choose to remove them for peace of mind.
Step 3: How to Remove PFAS from Your Water
There are two main technologies for removing PFAS:
A. Activated Carbon Filters (GAC/Biochar)
- Absorbs PFAS from water at the point of entry or use
- Must be replaced periodically
- NSF-certified systems are preferred
- Suitable for under-sink or whole-house use 💡
Consider filtering:
- Kitchen & bathroom faucets
- Water used for pets and livestock
- Bathing water
- Avoid filtering water used only for outdoor plants or lawns
Note: Carbon systems also remove chlorine, improving taste—but may allow bacterial growth if water sits too long.
B. Membrane Filtration & Ion Exchange Systems
These options are more advanced and effective, but also more expensive.
Membrane Systems (like Reverse Osmosis)
- Remove up to 99% of PFAS
- Also eliminate microplastics and other chemicals
- Require regular maintenance and may reduce water pressure
Ion Exchange Systems
- Use special media to capture PFAS
- Work similarly to water softeners
- Good for whole-house treatment
- Resins must be periodically regenerated or replaced
Important: Always request manufacturer test results, including before-and-after PFAS levels. Don’t rely solely on sales pitches—ask for documentation.
Additional Considerations
- Backwash Water: Some systems generate PFAS-laden wastewater. Check local regulations for proper disposal.
- Fertilizers & Biosolids: PFAS can also enter your food chain through land-applied sewage sludge (biosolids). Consider using organic compost alternatives instead.
- Gardening: Avoid growing edible crops in areas with PFAS-contaminated water or soil.
Final Thoughts
PFAS are a serious issue—but one that can be managed with awareness and action.
If you’re concerned about your drinking water, start by reviewing your Consumer Confidence Report and, if needed, conduct testing. If PFAS is present, installing a certified filtration system can drastically reduce your exposure and protect your health.
I offer no-cost consultations for homeowners or municipalities seeking to understand or treat PFAS contamination. Contact me today!