Is Your Tap Water Hiding "Forever Chemicals"?
What if something dangerous was in your drinking water — and you couldn't see, smell, or taste it?
That's exactly what's happening with PFAS. These man-made substances are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment or in our bodies. Unfortunately, PFAS in water are becoming a nationwide concern.
From small towns in Michigan to large cities like Philadelphia, PFAS contamination has been discovered in thousands of water systems. But you don't have to panic — there are simple ways to protect your home.
This blog explains what PFAS are, why they matter, and how to remove them with the right water filtration system.
Key Takeaways: At a Glance
They're "Forever Chemicals"
PFAS don't break down naturally, staying in your body for years.
Serious Health Risks
Linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and liver damage—even in small amounts.
Multiple Contamination Sources
Enter water through industrial runoff, landfills, and firefighting foam.
Filtration Works
Proper Filtration can remove up to 99% of PFAS from drinking water.
Want a deeper breakdown of the science and health risks? Read Our Comprehensive PFAS Breakdown →
What Are PFAS?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — but you don't need to remember the full name.
Just think of PFAS as chemicals used to resist heat, grease, water, and stains. They're found in everyday items like:
- Nonstick cookware
- Stain-resistant fabrics
- Fast food wrappers
- Firefighting foam
Once these chemicals get into the environment, they stick around for years — and when they enter the water supply, they can build up in your body over time.
It's like glitter: once it's out, it spreads everywhere and is nearly impossible to clean up.
Why PFAS in Water Is a Problem
PFAS Health Effects and Risks
PFAS aren't just hard to remove — they're also harmful to your health. Even in small amounts, PFAS have been linked to:
- Certain types of cancer
- Hormone and thyroid problems
- Liver and kidney damage
- Lower immune response in children
EPA PFAS Regulations and Safety Limits
Pregnant women and children are especially at risk. That's why the EPA has set extremely low limits — just a few parts per trillion.
Remember: PFAS are invisible — you won’t know they’re there unless you test your water or check your local report.
How to Know If PFAS Are in Your Water
Wondering if PFAS are in your tap water? Here are three easy ways to check:
Check your city's water report
These are usually posted online once a year. Look for your utility's annual water quality report to see if PFAS testing has been conducted in your area.
Use a home water testing kit for PFAS
Choose one that's lab-certified for accuracy. This is the most direct way to test for PFAS in your specific tap water.
Search PFAS maps by ZIP code
Some health departments and news outlets track known hotspots. These maps can help you understand contamination patterns in your area.
If you live near a military base, airport, landfill, or chemical plant, your risk may be higher.
If you’re looking for more help identifying whether PFAS might be in your water, this guide can also help you spot potential exposure and take the next steps.
How Do PFAS Get Into Your Drinking Water?
Here are three common ways PFAS reach your tap:
Industrial Sources and Factory Discharge
Companies that make PFAS or use them in products may release them into rivers and lakes, contaminating water sources downstream.
Environmental Contamination from Landfills
When PFAS-containing items break down in landfills and wastewater treatment plants, chemicals can seep into the ground and local water supplies.
Firefighting Foam and Military Sites
Military bases and airports have used PFAS-based foam for decades, contaminating nearby water sources with long-lasting chemical residue.
Once in the water supply, PFAS travel easily and don't go away on their own.
What Can You Do About PFAS?
You don't have to wait for your city to act — here are three steps you can take right now:
1. Test your water
Find out what you're dealing with. A home testing kit gives you real data so you can take the right steps.
For even more accuracy, consider getting a professional test done from a certified laboratory, which may offer more comprehensive analysis and precise results than at-home kits.
2. Install a water filter that targets PFAS
Look for systems that use activated carbon, reverse osmosis, or ion exchange. These are proven to reduce PFAS.
3. Stay informed
Check updates from the EPA, your local water utility, and environmental organizations.
You can also check your consumer confidence report (CCR) for a water quality report from your water supplier that shows what contaminants have been detected in your area's drinking water.
What are the best water filters for PFAS?
Not all filters remove PFAS — here are three effective options:
Activated Carbon Based Filters
Trap PFAS in their pores. Great for point-of-use filters or whole house filtration systems.
Shop Filters that remove PFAS →
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
Push water through a tight membrane that blocks PFAS and other contaminants, effectively reducing or removing contaminants by up to 99%.
Explore RO Systems →
Ion Exchange Systems
Swap harmful PFAS molecules for safer ones. Often used in combination with carbon filters.
Crystal Quest Systems Designed to Remove PFAS
These systems use proven technologies — including activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and our in-house SMART multi-media blend (featuring premium coconut-shell GAC types, Eagle Redox Alloys, and ion exchange resin) — to filter, reduce or remove PFAS by up to 99% and provide clean, reliable water for your home.
Carbon Whole House Systems
Whole-home PFAS protection — SMART uses multi-media blend with various GAC types plus other medias, Guardian uses premium GAC blend only.
Undersink Filter Systems
Compact under-sink solutions that reduce PFAS and other contaminants — available in both SMART and reverse osmosis systems.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Removes PFAS, lead, arsenic, and more at the molecular level — available in whole house, undersink, and countertop reverse osmosis systems.
Countertop Filter Systems
Easy installation, portable options for renters or travel — available in both SMART and reverse osmosis systems to reduce PFAS, chlorine, and VOCs.
Common PFAS Myths Debunked
Myth: Boiling Water Removes PFAS
False. Boiling doesn't help — it may actually concentrate PFAS as water evaporates.
Myth: All Water Filters Remove PFAS
Not true. Only specific filter types like reverse osmosis, activated carbon, and ion exchange are proven effective.
Myth: Clear Water Means Safe Water
Wrong. PFAS are invisible, tasteless, and odorless, so you can't detect them without proper testing.
Extra Tips for Safer Drinking Water
Monitor Your Water Quality Regularly
Read your annual water report to track what's in your water and stay informed about any contamination issues in your area.
Reduce PFAS Exposure from Household Products
Avoid PFAS in products like nonstick pans, water-repellent clothes, and stain-proof furniture to minimize overall exposure.
Consider Temporary Water Alternatives
Use bottled water short term if contamination is confirmed in your area while you implement a long-term filtration solution.
Final Thoughts: Clean Water Starts With You
PFAS in drinking water may sound scary — but you have options.
By choosing the right filtration system, testing your water, and staying informed, you can take control of your water quality and protect your family's health.
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
FAQs About PFAS
What are PFAS and why are they called "forever chemicals"?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of human-made chemicals used in products like nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and firefighting foams. They are often called "forever chemicals" because they break down extremely slowly and can remain in the environment and our bodies for many years.
How do PFAS get into drinking water?
PFAS enter drinking water through industrial pollution, runoff from sites where firefighting foams have been used, landfill leachate, and wastewater discharges. Because PFAS don't break down easily, they can travel long distances in water and contaminate both surface water and groundwater sources.
What health problems are associated with PFAS exposure?
Exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to health risks such as increased cholesterol, liver and thyroid problems, immune system effects, developmental delays in children, reduced vaccine response, and higher risk of some cancers (like kidney and testicular cancer). Health risks depend on the type and amount of PFAS exposure.
What are the safe or acceptable levels of PFAS in drinking water?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set enforceable limits for several PFAS chemicals in drinking water: 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS, and 10 ppt for PFNA, PFHxS, and GenX chemicals. Some states have even stricter guidelines. It's important to check your local regulations, as standards are evolving.
How can I find out if there are PFAS in my water?
To find out if your water contains PFAS, start by checking your local water utility's Consumer Confidence Report or website, which may list PFAS testing results. If you have a private well, you'll need to use a certified laboratory to test your water for PFAS. Many state health departments and the EPA provide resources to help you get started.
What treatment methods are effective at removing PFAS from water?
The most effective home water treatment methods for removing PFAS are granular activated carbon (GAC) filters, reverse osmosis (RO) systems, and ion exchange resins. Not all filters are effective, so look for systems that are proven to remove PFAS and follow manufacturer maintenance instructions for best results.
Can boiling water remove PFAS?
No, boiling water does not remove PFAS. In fact, boiling can actually concentrate PFAS in the water as it evaporates. To reduce PFAS, use a certified water filter or another proven treatment method instead.
