What Are PFAS – And Are They In Your Drinking Water?

PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals that have been shown to have a negative effect on health when humans are exposed to them. In this guide, we’ll discuss the basics of PFAS, and how to find out if they’re in your drinking water.

What Are PFAS, And Why Are They Bad?

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) include Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), which you may have heard of in the news.

These man-made chemicals have a unique ability to repel fire, oil, water, and stains, and have been used since the 1940s in stain and water-resistant fabrics, non-stick cookware, paints, fire-fighting foams, and even some cleaning products, to name just a few products.

However, since then, they have been found to be harmful to humans, and are thought to cause issues like endocrine (hormonal) disruptions, developmental delays in kids, cancer, and thyroid imbalances.

Most countries and companies have phased out the use of PFAS since 2000, but since they were so widely used and break down very slowly, PFAS can often still contaminate water supplies.

How Do I Know If My Drinking Water Has PFAS?

The EPA requires you to be notified if your public water system has a 70 parts per trillion level or higher of PFAS like PFOS and PFOA, but levels lower than this could still cause health issues, and experts believe that PFAS are present – to some extent – in every major water supply in the United States.

The best way to see if your drinking water has PFAS is with a lab test or a free in-home water quality test from Culligan Of Stockton. We can identify PFAS in your water supply, and help you understand the options you have for filtering and eliminating them – and restoring the quality of your drinking water.

Get A Water Test From Culligan Of Stockton Today To See If You Have PFAS In Your Water

If you’re worried about your health and the health of your family due to PFAS in water, don’t wait any longer. Contact Culligan Of Stockton online or give us a call at 209-466-2501, and we’ll send a technician to your home for a free, no-commitment water test.

After the test, we can discuss any issues like PFAS, lead, hard water, or even microbes that are found in your water – and help you learn more about your options for water purification in Stockton, such as the Aqua-Cleer® Advanced Drinking Water System.

Why should I test my water at home?

It is always a wise option to get your home’s water tested before you start drinking or utilizing it. Contaminated water causes harm to both your body and your home, and when we consume such water daily, it can cause long-term issues. Many people suffer health issues because they unknowingly drink contaminated water.

Testing your water is the best possible way to save yourself from any harm caused by common contaminates in your water. It will give you an idea of how safe your water is, and what actions you can take to improve it. Here are some reasons you may want to consider testing your home’s water:

  • Most water contaminants have no smell, taste, or color, so you may not notice water contamination by observing or smelling it; professional water testing is the best possible solution for catching such contaminants.
  • Plumbing material can sometimes pollute your water. Copper, lead, and plastic are often found in water, which makes it less healthy. Consuming such water can cause adverse reactions to your body and home appliances.
  • Tap and well water may contain biological pollutants such as algae bloom, coliform, E. Coli, Giardia, and Nitrates. These contaminants can cause intestinal and digestive illness, reproductive disorders, and nervous system maladies.
  • Your peace of mind is worth it. When you are sure that your drinking water is clean, then you will be less worried about your family’s health.

Another question that might be in your head is that when should I get my water tested?

When to Test your Water?

It is suggested by the EPA (Environment Protection Agency) that you should get your water tested once per year. If you experience some of the symptoms listed below, you may want to test your water more frequently:

Stomach & Digestive Problem

Contaminated water can play a significant role in your digestive and stomach problems. The food we eat also contributes a lot to such issues, but common water contaminates could be the root cause if you have any kind of recurring digestive or stomach issues.

Smelly, cloudy, frothy water

If any of these appear in your water, then you must get a water test immediately. Smelly, bubbly, or cloudy water is caused by several contaminants, which can be harmful to your body.

Older Homes

If you live in an older home, then your plumbing system might be old as well. These old systems cause the mixing of copper and lead in water through pipes. Copper and lead are two very harmful substances that can cause serious harm to your health.

Rusty or Red stains on your Sink & Clothing

If you see such stains after washing your clothes with water or on your sink, then your water is most likely contaminated, and you must get it professionally tested.

Is it possible to test your water at home?

Yes, you can use a home water test, but the results will not be as accurate or thorough as a professional water test. Here is how you can test your drinking water at home:

What should I do next?

To help sustain the life of your household appliances, leave your water problem-solving to a Culligan Water Expert. They’ll visit your home to evaluate your water and uncover any contaminants that may be within it. Best of all, they’ll provide a customized solution that treats the problem at the source so you’ll never worry about the quality of your water again. It’s a win for you and your home. Schedule a free in-home water test today!