PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of chemicals that have been used in various industrial and consumer products for decades. Unfortunately, these chemicals have also been linked to several health risks, including cancer, thyroid disease, and developmental issues. One of the most significant sources of PFAS exposure is through drinking water, which is why many people are looking for ways to remove these substances from their water supply. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of water filters that can effectively remove PFAS and help you make an informed decision about which filter is best for you.
In this article, we will discuss the topic of water filters and their ability to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health concerns, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system dysfunction. As water sources become increasingly contaminated with PFAS, many people are turning to water filtration systems to protect themselves and their families. In this article, we will explore how water filters work, which types of filters are most effective at removing PFAS, and some of the best products currently available on the market.
Understanding PFAS
Before we dive into the various types of water filters that can remove PFAS, it’s essential to understand what these chemicals are and how they can impact your health. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that are resistant to heat, water, and oil. They have been used in a wide variety of consumer products, including non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. PFAS can also be found in firefighting foam, which has contaminated many water sources across the country.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to several health risks, including an increased risk of cancer, thyroid disease, and developmental issues. These chemicals can accumulate in the body over time and are known to persist in the environment for a long time.
Sources of PFAS
PFAS can enter the environment through various sources, including:
- Industrial discharges
- Landfill leachate
- Wastewater treatment plant effluent
- Firefighting foam
Once PFAS enter the environment, they can contaminate soil, groundwater, and surface water sources, such as lakes, rivers, and streams. This contamination can then lead to human exposure through drinking water.
Types of Water Filters That Remove PFAS
There are several types of water filters that can effectively remove PFAS from drinking water. Here are some of the most commonly used filters:
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters are one of the most popular types of water filters used to remove PFAS from drinking water. These filters work by adsorbing PFAS onto the surface of the carbon, effectively removing them from the water. Activated carbon filters are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
Reverse Osmosis Filters
Reverse osmosis filters are another popular type of water filter used to remove PFAS. These filters work by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, which removes contaminants such as PFAS. Reverse osmosis filters are highly effective at removing PFAS and can also remove other contaminants such as lead, arsenic, and fluoride.
Ion Exchange Filters
Ion exchange filters are another type of water filter that can effectively remove PFAS from drinking water. These filters work by exchanging ions with the PFAS, effectively removing them from the water. Ion exchange filters are commonly used in conjunction with activated carbon filters for maximum effectiveness.
Distillation Filters
Distillation filters work by heating water to its boiling point and then capturing the steam and condensing it back into water. This process effectively removes contaminants such as PFAS from the water. Distillation filters are highly effective but can be expensive and time-consuming to use.
Choosing the Right Water Filter
When choosing a water filter to remove PFAS, there are several factors to consider, including:
- The level of PFAS contamination in your water
- The cost of the filter and ongoing maintenance
- The type of filter and its effectiveness at removing PFAS
- The certification of the filter from independent testing organizations
It’s essential to choose a filter that is certified by an independent testing organization such as NSF International or Underwriters Laboratories. These organizations test water filters for their effectiveness at removing contaminants such as PFAS and provide certification for those that meet their standards.
FAQs – What water filters take out PFAS?
What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used in a wide range of products such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. They are persistent and can accumulate in the environment and in the human body, and exposure to high levels of PFAS has been linked to several health problems.
What are the health risks associated with exposure to PFAS?
Exposure to high levels of PFAS has been linked to several health problems, including decreased fertility, kidney damage, liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased immune response to vaccines, and several types of cancer.
Do all water filters remove PFAS?
No, not all water filters are effective at removing PFAS from drinking water. Some popular types of filters like activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and distillation have been shown to be effective at removing PFAS from drinking water. However, it is important to note that not all carbon filters are created equal, and some may not effectively remove PFAS. When choosing a filter, be sure to look for the NSF International certification for reduction of PFAS.
How do activated carbon filters remove PFAS from water?
Activated carbon filters use a process called adsorption to remove PFAS from drinking water. Adsorption is the process by which chemicals or contaminants adhere to the surface of the activated carbon. The carbon in the filter is porous and has a large surface area, which allows it to capture the PFAS molecules and prevent them from passing through the filter.
How effective are reverse osmosis filters at removing PFAS?
Reverse osmosis filters are highly effective at removing PFAS from drinking water. The reverse osmosis process works by using pressure to push water through a semi-permeable membrane that captures any contaminants, including PFAS. In fact, the reverse osmosis process is so effective that it is used in several large-scale commercial applications to remove PFAS from wastewater.
Can boiling water remove PFAS?
No, boiling water does not remove PFAS. In fact, boiling water can actually concentrate the PFAS, making the contamination worse. It is important to use an effective filtration technology to remove PFAS from drinking water.
