What are PFAS?
Also known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, PFAS, including PFOS, PFOA, GenX, and other chemicals, are classified as man-made chemicals. These substances popularly used in various industries in the United States and other parts of the world are persistent in the environment, as well as in the human body. PFAS, like any persistent chemicals, doesn’t break down and may accumulate over the years. Therefore, they are potential threats to human health when found present in drinking water.
What Does PFAS Do to Your Body?
Exposure to high levels of PFAS may lead to various health issues, including kidney disease, auto-immune conditions, and thyroid conditions. An individual exposed to PFAS is also at a higher risk of acquiring cancer. Since PFAS can be found in food, commercial household products, workplace, drinking water, and living organisms, many people are at risk of experiencing the health hazards associated with these contaminants.
Does Boiling Water Get Rid of PFAS?
Unlike microorganisms in drinking water, you can’t kill chemical contaminants by boiling it. You will only increase the concentration of the chemical contaminant when you boil the water.
Do Water Filters Remove PFAS?
Certified water filtration units can remove PFAS and other chemical contaminants in drinking water. Many of the modern filtration systems are capable of eliminating PFAS before they even reach your faucet. Make sure you select filters certified for PFAS chemical removal before you make your purchase.
How Do I Get Rid of PFAS?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA, several water treatment methods like activated carbon treatment, ion exchange resins, and membranes like Reverse Osmosis (RO). Granular activated carbon (GAC) is a filter media used in most water filter systems today due to its success in removing chemical contaminants. Ion exchange resins and membranes are also known for their ability to eliminate impurities in water.
List of Contaminants
