What Are PFAS Chemicals?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of complex, man-made chemicals that have been widely used in various consumer goods for over 70 years. They were accidentally discovered in 1938 by DuPont chemist Roy J. Plunkett, leading to the creation of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), later commercialized as Teflon. Over the years, PFAS chemicals found applications in numerous products, including non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, stain-resistant fabrics, and cosmetics.
PFAS gained popularity due to their unique ability to resist heat, oil, stains, and water. The term “PFAS” encompasses a broad category of chemicals, with some commonly known subgroups including:
- PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid): Found in personal care products like shampoos and cosmetics.
- PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid): Used in non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and industrial applications.
- PFHxS (Perfluorohexanesulfonic acid): Present in stain-resistant fabrics and firefighting foam.
- PFNA (Perfluorononanoic acid): Used in coatings for furniture, carpets, and food packaging.
PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they take an exceptionally long time to break down in the environment and in our bodies, where they can accumulate over time.
PFAS in Everyday Products
PFAS are widely used to enhance durability, water resistance, and other qualities in products such as:
- Consumer goods: Non-stick cookware, food packaging, cosmetics, and clothing.
- Medical devices: Catheters, stents, and medicine delivery systems.
- Automotive and electronics: Fuel lines, seals, batteries, and semiconductors.
- Homewares: Water-resistant textiles, greaseproof paper, and kitchen utensils.
- Personal care items: Shampoos, toothbrushes, and makeup.
Health Effects of PFAS Exposure
Recent studies have raised significant concerns about the health impacts of PFAS exposure, earning them the nickname “new asbestos.” In 2023, the World Health Organization classified PFOA as carcinogenic to humans. Similarly, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2024 concluded that there was no safe level of PFAS in drinking water, highlighting their potential to cause cancer.
Health effects linked to PFAS include:
- Elevated cholesterol and liver enzyme issues.
- Impaired reproductive health and fertility.
- Weakened immune response to vaccines.
- Increased risks of renal, thyroid, and liver diseases.
- Developmental concerns for infants exposed in utero.
Addressing PFAS in Your Water
Given their persistence and widespread presence, PFAS can contaminate water supplies. For families concerned about PFAS exposure, using a reliable water filtration system is one of the most effective ways to mitigate risks. Reverse osmosis systems are particularly effective, removing 99.98% of contaminants, including PFAS. These systems are ideal for kitchen use, ensuring safe water for drinking and cooking.
For comprehensive protection, reverse osmosis systems can be paired with a full-home filtration system to remove sediments, heavy metals, pesticides, and chlorine from all water entering your home.
Bottled Water and PFAS
While bottled water may seem like a safe alternative, its PFAS levels depend on the source and treatment. To ensure safety, thorough research on the brands used to identify their water sources and the use of advanced filtration techniques.
Ongoing Developments in PFAS Filtration
Fix My Water is committed to advancing water filtration technology. Through ongoing research collaborations, innovative filtration systems are being developed to address PFAS contamination effectively and affordably for full-home water filtration system use.
Protect Your Family’s Health
Understanding the quality of your water is the first step in protecting your family from PFAS exposure. Fix My Water offers comprehensive water consultations and testing services to identify contaminants and recommend tailored solutions. From advanced reverse osmosis systems to full-home water filtration setups, our team is dedicated to providing clean, safe water for your household.
Take control of your water quality today. Schedule a consultation with Fix My Water to ensure your family’s health and peace of mind.