The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering changes that could weaken national drinking water limits for toxic “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS. With these safeguards at risk, many people are asking:
How can I protect myself and my family from these substances in tap water?
What Are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals found in everything from nonstick cookware and food packaging to firefighting foam. They’ve been detected in nearly half of all U.S. drinking water supplies, exposing more than 172 million Americans, according to EPA and state monitoring data.
They’re called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down naturally in the environment or the human body. Even at very low levels, exposure to PFAS has been linked to cancer, reproductive issues, immune dysfunction, and hormonal disruption.
During the previous administration, new federal standards were set to force water systems nationwide to install filtration technology to reduce PFAS in tap water. However, the proposed rollback of these protections now creates uncertainty about how utilities will respond — and how communities can keep their drinking water safe.
That’s where Aquapura steps in: educating the public and providing advanced filtration solutions that reduce exposure to PFAS and many other contaminants.
When to Consider a Water Filter
The first step is to find out what’s in your water. Aquapura’s Water Quality Finder helps consumers identify the presence of PFAS and other contaminants in their area.
If you rely on a private well — particularly near industrial sites, airports, or military bases — it’s essential to test your water for PFAS. Contamination often spreads from soil and groundwater runoff long before it’s visible or detectable by taste or smell.
Best Filter Technologies for PFAS
Based on decades of research and tests from health agencies and independent laboratories, the three most effective filtration methods for PFAS are:
1. Reverse Osmosis (RO)
RO systems push tap water through a semi-permeable membrane that removes particles larger than water molecules — including PFAS.
They’re the most effective method for removing a broad spectrum of contaminants, from heavy metals to industrial chemicals.
Most home RO systems also include carbon filters for an extra purification stage.
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Typically installed under the sink, but some portable versions are available.
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Ideal for households in areas with known PFAS contamination.
2. Activated Carbon Filters
Also known as granular activated carbon (GAC) or carbon block filters, these systems absorb pollutants as water flows through.
They are a cost-effective option and available in multiple forms: faucet-mounted, countertop, under-sink, or pitcher-type.
Multi-stage carbon systems tend to perform best for PFAS reduction.
Research shows that about 75% of carbon-based filters significantly reduce PFAS in tap water — but performance depends on the quality of the brand and the replacement frequency of cartridges.
3. Ion Exchange
Ion exchange technology traps contaminants by swapping harmful ions for harmless ones.
It can reduce PFAS but is more commonly found in whole-house or industrial systems rather than small point-of-use filters.
These systems can be expensive, but they’re powerful for homes facing multiple contaminants like PFAS, nitrates, and arsenic.
Low- or No-Installation Options
If you’re renting or can’t install permanent systems, pitcher, faucet, or countertop filters are simple and affordable alternatives.
They can still remove a substantial amount of PFAS and other pollutants when maintained correctly.
Whole-House Filtration Systems
While whole-house filters are not necessary for most households, they’re sometimes installed in communities with high contamination levels.
However, studies show that some of these systems can increase PFAS concentrations in certain conditions or reduce chlorine too much, leading to bacterial growth in pipes.
For most homes, treating drinking and cooking water with a point-of-use system (under-sink or countertop) is more practical and reliable.
Filters That Tackle Multiple Contaminants
A major benefit of PFAS filters like reverse osmosis and carbon systems is that they also remove other pollutants, including:
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Disinfection byproducts
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Heavy metals (lead, mercury)
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Nitrates and organic compounds
In short, investing in a good filter not only reduces PFAS exposure but also improves overall water quality.
Filter Certifications You Can Trust
When choosing a filter, always check for NSF International certifications — the global standard for water treatment safety and effectiveness.
Look for these labels:
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NSF/ANSI 53: Proven to reduce PFAS below 20 parts per trillion (ppt).
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NSF/ANSI 58: Applies to reverse osmosis systems, ensuring maximum removal efficiency.
Note: Many filters certified under older standards only meet a limit of 70 ppt, based on outdated EPA guidelines.
The most recent benchmark — and the one Aquapura aligns with — is 4 ppt, reflecting the latest health-protective science.
Maintenance Matters
Even the best water filter is only as good as its upkeep.
If cartridges aren’t replaced on schedule, pollutants can build up and leach back into your drinking water.
✅ Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule
✅ Replace filters on time
✅ Flush new filters properly before use
Aquapura’s Recommendations
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Test your water. Use local or state resources — or Aquapura’s online Water Quality Finder — to identify PFAS levels.
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Choose the right system. Reverse osmosis or multi-stage carbon filters offer the best protection.
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Install properly. For renters, portable countertop or faucet filters are convenient alternatives.
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Maintain regularly. Clean, replace, and monitor filters as directed.
The Bottom Line
PFAS contamination is widespread, but you’re not powerless.
With the right filtration system — and reliable information — you can protect your household from these long-lasting chemicals.
At Aquapura, our mission is to help families access cleaner, safer, and healthier water.
By choosing modern filtration solutions, you’re not only protecting your health — you’re investing in your family’s future.