PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are the “forever chemicals” found in nearly half of the tap water in the US.
You may have heard of PFAS, the “forever chemicals” contaminating our environment and water supplies. PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances, include thousands of man-made chemicals used in consumer products. Notably, two common types, PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate), are particularly harmful to human health. At HQ Water Solutions, we’re ahead of the curve, having spent years testing, treating, and educating customers about PFAS contamination to protect your health.
Understanding PFAS: What Are They and Where Are They Found?
Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals used in a range of products for their water-, grease-, and stain-resistant properties. Commonly found in items like nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpets, water-repellent clothing, and food packaging, these chemicals are also a key component in firefighting foams. This wide range of uses means that people are exposed to PFAS in various ways daily. The challenge is that PFAS do not break down easily in the environment or the body, persisting for years and accumulating in our blood over time.
Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] issued health advisories that said the chemicals are much more hazardous to human health than scientists originally thought. Almost half of the tap water in the United States is contaminated with chemicals known as “forever chemicals,” according to a new study from the US Geological Survey. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognize PFAS as a significant health and environmental risk. Studies reveal that nearly everyone has some level of PFAS in their blood, with public water systems being a common source. These toxic substances and disease-causing agents are no longer a distant concern—they’re right here in our drinking water, affecting families across the country.
Health Effects and Risks of PFAS Exposure
PFAS exposure has been linked to numerous health problems, including cancer, liver damage, immune system issues, and developmental delays in children. PFOA and PFOS, in particular, are under scrutiny due to their potentially serious health effects. Studies have shown that these substances can interfere with hormone levels, lead to liver and kidney damage, and may even impact fertility. The toxic nature of PFAS compounds has led agencies like the ATSDR and EPA to investigate further, working to better understand these health risks and limit exposure.
The persistence of PFAS in the environment and our bodies makes it difficult to eliminate these risks. However, HQ Water Solutions offers reliable, tested solutions that help reduce exposure, ensuring safer water for you and your family.
Why Acting Now to Protect Your Family is Essential
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is working to regulate PFAS in drinking water, with a particular focus on PFOA and PFOS. However, regulations and safety guidelines are still being developed and could take years to implement fully. While these regulatory steps are important, they may not be fast enough to protect your family’s health right now and for the years to come. Taking action today is crucial to avoid the long-term health problems associated with PFAS exposure.
In states like Pennsylvania, public water systems are now required to test for PFAS regularly, as seen in places like the Manheim Area Water & Sewer Authority (MAWSA). But even if your water system is not yet regulated for PFAS, you can take steps to ensure your water is safe.
Steps to Reduce PFAS Exposure and Protect Your Health
- Test Your Water: If you’re concerned about PFAS in drinking water, testing is essential. A professional water test will provide an accurate measure of PFAS contamination. Some municipalities may also provide data on PFAS levels in local public water systems.
- Use Certified, Reliable Water Treatment Solutions: Not all water treatment systems are equal. Many products claim to remove PFAS but lack proper certification. At HQ Water Solutions, we use only rigorously tested and certified systems proven to reduce PFOA, PFOS, and other PFAS contaminants. Our solutions ensure that your family gets safe, clean water free from harmful chemicals.
- Stay Informed on PFAS Developments: Regulatory changes, technological advancements, and emerging research can all impact how we address PFAS in drinking water. Keep up with updates from agencies like the EPA and the ATSDR to stay informed about the latest health recommendations and water treatment options.
HQ Water Solutions: PFAS Treatment Systems You Can Trust
At HQ Water Solutions, we understand the importance of effective, certified treatment for PFAS contamination. Here’s how our systems provide reliable solutions:
- Advanced Reverse Osmosis for PFAS Reduction: Our reverse osmosis systems are designed to remove PFAS along with other contaminants like lead, nitrates, and total dissolved solids (TDS). These systems use high-efficiency membranes that physically block PFAS molecules, delivering purified drinking water to your family.
- Whole-House Filtration Systems for Comprehensive Protection: Our whole-house PFAS filtration solutions go beyond the kitchen tap, ensuring safe water throughout your home. These systems are customized to your specific water quality needs, protecting your health from all angles.
How Our PFAS Systems Work
Our filtration systems use advanced technologies like ion exchange and high-efficiency membranes to trap and remove PFAS. Ion exchange resins, like those used in our systems, are effective for capturing specific PFAS compounds such as PFOA and PFOS, providing a thorough solution to contamination. These systems are certified to meet NSF/ANSI standards, meaning they have been rigorously tested to reduce PFAS levels well below EPA-recommended thresholds.
Other systems on the market may lack these rigorous certifications, and their ability to remove PFAS effectively is often unverified. Choosing certified systems ensures you’re getting a reliable, science-backed solution to PFAS contamination.
FAQs on PFAS in Drinking Water
- Where Can I Find Information on PFAS Levels? You can check for PFAS in your local water system by consulting data from public water utilities or visiting resources like the Environmental Working Group’s interactive PFAS map. For more specific testing, consider a professional PFAS test or water analysis to understand your exposure level.
- Why Choose HQ Water Solutions? Our certified systems are backed by science and proven to reduce PFAS, PFOA, and PFOS effectively. We provide tailored solutions that address not only PFAS but also other contaminants, delivering safer water for your family.
Take Action Today for Healthier Water
PFAS are more than just a passing concern—they’re a lasting threat to health and environmental safety. To protect your family, take control by scheduling a free consultation with HQ Water Solutions. With our advanced, certified filtration systems, you can reduce exposure to PFAS and other harmful contaminants, ensuring safe, healthy water for years to come.
For additional information, review the EPA’s PFAS resources. or ask your water company to provide you with a copy of their PFAS testing results or check EWG’s interactive map of PFAS test results. At HQ Water Solutions, we are committed to safeguarding your family’s health with proven, reliable solutions. Schedule a free PFAS consultation today and let us help you achieve peace of mind in knowing your water is protected.
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