Everything You Need to Know About Forever Chemicals (PFAS)

They’re called many things: PFAS, perfluoroalkyl, polyfluoroalkyl, perfluorinated chemicals,  polyfluorinated compounds. Whatever they’re referred to, “forever chemicals” have gained notoriety for good reason. Research has shown that this group of 4,000+ chemical compounds can affect the earth and people alike. Let’s get into them, their effects on the body and how to eliminate them.

What Are PFA Chemicals Used For?

If something is nonstick, stain-resistant or waterproof, chances are it’s made with PFAS. This includes anything with a fluoropolymer coating (like Teflon and GORE-TEX). 

Home-based and commercial products made with PFAS can include:

• Cookware
• Textiles
• Food packaging 
• Clothing
• Furniture
• Adhesives
• Electrical wire insulation
• Fire-fighting foam

Where Are PFAS Found?

While they’re great for products, PFAS compounds don’t break down in the environment (hence the “forever” part). This can have a lot of harmful implications, including:

• Affecting water supplies across the USA (North Carolina in particular is a hotspot). 
• Getting into/harming animals and humans (via water, food and more) and plants (via the soil).  

What Are The Effects from PFA Chemical Exposure?

Drinking water with PFAS is the main way these harmful chemicals get into our bodies. Recent studies have determined that long-term exposure poses serious health risks, and the EPA recently announced in April of 2024 that ANY amount of PFOA and PFOS in your water is considered hazardous. The new limits set by the EPA for public water systems, going into effect by 2029, are 4.0 ppt for PFOA and PFOS and 10 ppt for PFHxS, PFNA and GenX chemicals.

Even at very low concentrations, health risks include: 

• Developmental effects in children (low birth weight, accelerated puberty, etc.).
• Increased risks for some cancers (prostate, kidney, testicular, etc.).
• Increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity.
• Increased chance of liver disease. 
• Reproductive effects (decreased fertility, birth defects, etc.).
• Reduced ability of the immune system to fight infections.

How Do You Get Rid of PFAS?

Reverse osmosis is the best way to deal with PFAS chemicals/compounds. Kinetico’s 5 Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Station has recognition with the State of North Carolina, the Water Quality Association (WQA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as a preferred technology for removing PFAS.  

It includes: 

• 5-micron sediment pre-filter: Removes any fine particles and includes carbon filtration. 
• RO membrane module: Made with a patented rinsing feature that extends its life.
• Non-corrosive storage: Stores PFAFS-free water in an accessible, chemical-free tank. 
• Patented MACguard Filter^TM: Reduces PFAS, chlorine and unpleasant tastes/odors.
• The PureMometer^TM: Visible indicator for estimating the life left on the filter.
• Flex Filtration: Deals with problem contaminants like arsenic and viruses.

Kinetico Knows PFAS and Water 

Don’t let water problems now lead to life problems later. Schedule a free consultation to better understand what makes up your water , or give us a call at (888) 788-3181.