Could Your Water Be Contaminated With "Forever Chemicals"?
PFAS have been found in drinking water across the country — but most people have no idea they're even there.
You can't smell them. You can't taste them. And unless you test for them, you won't know they're in your tap water.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals used in everyday products like nonstick cookware, waterproof jackets, and fast-food wrappers. Once they enter the water supply, they don't go away — earning them the nickname "forever chemicals."
If you're wondering whether PFAS might be in your home's water, this article is for you. We'll cover common signs, risk factors, and what you can do if you suspect contamination.
Want the full breakdown on PFAS health risks and removal methods? Read our full PFAS Contamination Guide
5 Signs You Might Have PFAS in Your Water
1. You Live Near a PFAS Hotspot
If you live close to any of the following, your risk of PFAS exposure is higher:
- Military bases (PFAS are found in firefighting foam)
- Airports
- Landfills or industrial zones
- Wastewater treatment plants
PFAS can seep into groundwater and contaminate wells or public water supplies — even miles away from the source.
Map displaying sampling locations where PFAS have been observed from the USGS
2. Your Local Water Utility Has Reported PFAS
Many water systems now test for PFAS as part of EPA recommendations. Look at your city's Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) or call your utility to ask directly.
Don't see anything reported? That doesn't mean you're in the clear — not all systems are required to test yet.
3. You've Read News Reports About PFAS in Your Area
Several nonprofits and media outlets have created interactive PFAS maps by ZIP code. If you're hearing about PFAS lawsuits or cleanup projects near you, that's a big red flag.
Search:
"PFAS map + [your state]"
"Is my water contaminated with PFAS?"
4. You're on a Private Well Without Regular Testing
If your home uses a private well, you are responsible for water testing — and PFAS are not included in standard well checks.
If your well is near a military, airport, or industrial area, it's smart to test your water for PFAS at least once a year.
5. Your Water Tastes, Smells, or Feels "Off" — But Labs Say It's Safe
PFAS are usually undetectable without lab testing. But if you've already ruled out chlorine, sulfur, and metals… and your water still doesn't seem right, it's time to check for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How to Check Your Water for PFAS
PFAS don't show up on basic at-home test strips. If you want to know for sure, here's what to do:
Use a Certified PFAS Lab Test Kit
Look for tests that specifically say they detect PFAS (some test for dozens of variations). These usually involve sending a sample to a lab for analysis.
You can find certified PFAS testing kits from reputable water testing companies online or through local environmental testing laboratories.
Ask Your Utility
If you're on public water, your utility may have already tested for PFAS. Just remember — no news doesn't always mean clean water.
Check Third-Party Databases and Interactive Maps
Websites like EWG.org and state environmental agencies maintain up-to-date PFAS findings in water systems nationwide. You can view areas that have been reported for PFAS contamination with interactive maps where you can enter your address and see reports of where, what PFAS, the testing levels, and other information such as the suspected source.
View the EWG PFAS Contamination Map
Source: EWG Interactive Map
What to Do If PFAS Are in Your Water
Avoid Additional PFAS Exposure
Cut back on:
- Nonstick cookware
- Water-repellent fabrics
- Stain-proof furniture
- Takeout containers lined with grease-resistant coatings
Drink Bottled Water (Short Term)
If your contamination levels are high, consider bottled water temporarily while installing a long-term solution.
Use a Certified Water Filter
Look for filters that use filtration technology proven to remove PFAS, such as reverse osmosis, activated carbon, or ion exchange systems. Make sure you're buying from trusted, reputable brands that provide third-party testing results and performance certifications.
Choosing the right water filter for PFAS removal can be overwhelming with so many options available. Our article breaks down the most effective filtration technologies, compares top-rated systems, and helps you find the perfect solution for your home and budget.
Read our article about the best water filters for PFAS removal
What Are the Health Effects of PFAS in Drinking Water?
PFAS exposure has been linked to various health concerns including increased cholesterol levels, decreased vaccine response, changes in liver enzymes, and increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy. Long-term exposure may also be associated with certain types of cancers.
The full scope of PFAS health impacts is still being studied, but current research reveals concerning connections to multiple body systems. Understanding these risks is crucial for making informed decisions about water treatment and protection for your family.
Final Thoughts: Trust, but Test
PFAS contamination is silent, but the damage can be serious. Even if your water looks crystal clear, it could be hiding "forever chemicals" that harm your health over time.
The only way to know for sure is to test your water — especially if you live in a high-risk area. Once you know what you're dealing with, you can take steps to protect yourself with the right filtration system.
Ready to Remove PFAS from Your Water?
Crystal Quest has been designing advanced filtration solutions for over 30 years — including filters that remove up to 99% of PFAS from your water.
Need help from a specialist? Contact us
Frequently Asked Questions About PFAS in Water
Do water filters get rid of PFAS?
Not all water filters remove PFAS effectively. Only specific filtration technologies like reverse osmosis, activated carbon filters, and ion exchange systems are proven to reduce PFAS contamination.
How do you remove PFAS from water?
PFAS can be removed from water through several methods: reverse osmosis filtration (most effective), activated carbon filtration, ion exchange systems, and specialized PFAS-certified water filters. Boiling water does not remove PFAS and may actually concentrate them. Professional water treatment systems are the most reliable solution for PFAS removal.
What are the signs of PFAS contamination in drinking water?
PFAS contamination cannot be detected by taste, smell, or appearance since these chemicals are odorless, colorless, and tasteless. The only reliable way to detect PFAS is through professional laboratory testing. However, living near military bases, airports, industrial areas, or having a private well increases your risk of PFAS exposure.
How much does PFAS water testing cost?
PFAS water testing typically costs between $200-$500 depending on the number of PFAS compounds tested and the laboratory used. Some basic PFAS tests check for 20-30 compounds, while comprehensive tests can analyze over 40 different PFAS chemicals. Home test kits that you send to certified labs are usually the most affordable option.
Are PFAS dangerous in drinking water and what are the health effects?
Yes, PFAS in drinking water pose serious health risks. Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to increased cholesterol, liver damage, decreased fertility, increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy, and increased risk of certain types of cancers. PFAS are called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally and can accumulate in the body over time.
