What are forever chemicals in water ?
You may have heard the term “forever chemicals” in the news lately, but what exactly are they and why are they a concern? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of forever chemicals in water, including what they are, how they can affect your health, and what you can do to avoid them.
What Are Forever Chemicals?
Forever chemicals, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a variety of products since the 1940s. These chemicals are known for their ability to repel water and oil, making them useful in products such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging.
The term “forever chemicals” comes from the fact that these chemicals do not break down easily in the environment and can persist for a long time. This means that once they are released into the environment, they can remain there for years, even decades.
How Do Forever Chemicals Get into Water?
Forever chemicals can enter water sources in a variety of ways. One of the main sources is through industrial discharges, where these chemicals are used in manufacturing processes and then released into the environment. They can also enter water sources through landfills, where products containing PFAS are disposed of and can leach into the groundwater.
Another common source of forever chemicals in water is firefighting foam. These foams contain PFAS and are used to extinguish fires, but they can also contaminate water sources if not properly contained and disposed of.
What Happens If You Drink Water with PFAS?
The presence of forever chemicals in water has been linked to a variety of health concerns. Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can lead to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, as well as other health issues such as thyroid disease, decreased fertility, and developmental delays in children.
While the exact levels of PFAS that can cause health issues are still being studied, it is generally recommended to limit exposure to these chemicals as much as possible.
How Do You Get Rid of Forever Chemicals in Water?
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to remove forever chemicals from water. Traditional water treatment methods, such as filtration and chlorination, are not effective in removing PFAS. This means that even if your tap water is treated, it may still contain these chemicals.
However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to forever chemicals in water. One option is to install a home water filtration system that is specifically designed to remove PFAS. These systems use activated carbon filters, which have been shown to be effective in removing these chemicals from water.
Another option is to switch to bottled water, but it’s important to note that not all bottled water is free from forever chemicals. In fact, a recent study found that many popular brands of bottled water contain PFAS.
Forever Chemicals in Sparkling Water
Sparkling water has become increasingly popular in recent years, but is it safe from forever chemicals? Unfortunately, the answer is no. A recent study found that many brands of sparkling water also contain PFAS.
This is because many sparkling water brands use carbonation techniques that involve the use of PFAS-containing filters. While the levels of PFAS in sparkling water may be lower than in tap water, it’s still important to be aware of this potential source of exposure.
Georgia Forever Chemicals in Water
In recent years, the state of Georgia has been in the news for its high levels of forever chemicals in water. This is due to the fact that the state has a large number of military bases, where firefighting foam containing PFAS has been used for decades.
The contamination of water sources in Georgia has led to concerns about the health of residents and has sparked efforts to clean up the affected areas. However, this is a complex and ongoing process, and it may be years before the water in these areas is safe to drink.
How to Avoid Forever Chemicals
While it may be difficult to completely avoid forever chemicals, there are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid products that contain PFAS, such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and stain-resistant carpets.
- Use natural cleaning products instead of those containing PFAS.
- If you live near a military base or other industrial site, research the water quality in your area and take precautions if necessary.
- Install a home water filtration system that is specifically designed to remove PFAS.
- Limit your consumption of bottled water and opt for tap water when possible.
Forever Chemicals List
There are thousands of different types of PFAS, but some of the most common ones include:
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
- Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)
- Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS)
- Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)
- Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA)
It’s important to note that this is not a comprehensive list, as new types of PFAS are constantly being developed.
Takeaways
Forever chemicals, also known as PFAS, are a group of man-made chemicals that can persist in the environment for a long time. These chemicals can enter water sources through a variety of means and have been linked to health concerns such as cancer and thyroid disease.
While it may be difficult to completely avoid forever chemicals, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure, such as using a home water filtration system and avoiding products that contain PFAS. By staying informed and taking precautions, you can help protect yourself and your family from the potential dangers of forever chemicals in water.
Note: Information provided above is for general knowledge. It is not a set standard for maintenance. Your water purifier’s service needs depend on factors like water quality, usage, placement and more. Trust that our technicians know the best.