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.