PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have become one of the most discussed drinking water contaminants in recent years. Often called "forever chemicals," PFAS are a large group of synthetic compounds that resist heat, water, oil, and grease. While these properties make them useful in many consumer and industrial products, they also make PFAS extremely persistent in the environment.
This guide explains what PFAS are, where they come from, how they can enter drinking water, potential health concerns, current U.S. regulations, and how homeowners can reduce their exposure.
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What Are PFAS?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a family of thousands of human-made chemicals developed in the 1940s. These chemicals were designed to resist water, stains, grease, and high temperatures.
Unlike many other chemicals, PFAS break down very slowly. Because they remain in soil, groundwater, rivers, and lakes for long periods, they are commonly referred to as forever chemicals.
Some of the best-known PFAS include:
- PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid)
- PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)
- PFHxS
- PFNA
- GenX Chemicals
Although some older PFAS have largely been phased out in the United States, newer alternatives are still being manufactured and studied.
Where Do PFAS Come From?
PFAS have been used in thousands of products because they repel water and oils.
Common uses include:
- Non-stick cookware
- Water-resistant clothing
- Outdoor gear
- Food packaging
- Firefighting foams
- Industrial manufacturing
- Carpets and stain-resistant fabrics
- Cosmetics
Over many decades, manufacturing, disposal, and the use of these products have allowed PFAS to enter the environment.
How Do PFAS Get Into Drinking Water?
PFAS can reach drinking water through several pathways, including:
- Industrial facilities
- Fire training sites using firefighting foam
- Landfills
- Wastewater treatment plants
- Contaminated groundwater
- Surface water sources
Once PFAS enter groundwater or surface water, they may remain there for many years because they degrade very slowly.
Why Are PFAS Called "Forever Chemicals"?
PFAS contain one of the strongest chemical bonds found in organic chemistry—the carbon-fluorine bond. This bond makes the chemicals extremely stable and resistant to natural breakdown.
As a result, PFAS may remain in:
- Groundwater
- Lakes
- Rivers
- Soil
- Wildlife
- The human body
This persistence is one reason why governments around the world have increased research and regulation surrounding PFAS.
Potential Health Concerns
Scientific research on PFAS continues to evolve. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), long-term exposure to certain PFAS may be associated with increased health risks.
Research has examined possible associations with:
- Immune system effects
- Changes in cholesterol levels
- Liver effects
- Developmental effects in infants and children
- Reduced vaccine response
- Pregnancy-related effects
- Increased risk of certain cancers for some PFAS compounds
Because scientific understanding continues to develop, regulatory agencies continue to update recommendations and drinking water standards.
EPA Drinking Water Standards for PFAS
In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized the nation's first drinking water standards for several PFAS compounds under the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.
The rule establishes Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for several PFAS, including:
- PFOA
- PFOS
- PFHxS
- PFNA
- HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals)
Public water systems are required to monitor for these contaminants and take corrective actions when levels exceed federal standards.
Can You Taste or Smell PFAS?
No.
PFAS generally have no noticeable taste, odor, or color in drinking water. Water may appear completely normal while containing measurable PFAS.
Testing by a certified laboratory is the only reliable way to determine whether PFAS are present.
Who May Be More Likely to Have PFAS in Their Water?
Some homes may have a higher chance of PFAS contamination due to nearby environmental conditions.
Potential higher-risk locations include homes near:
- Military bases
- Airports
- Firefighter training facilities
- Chemical manufacturing plants
- Industrial sites
- Landfills
Many local water utilities now publish PFAS monitoring information in their annual water quality reports.
How Can Homeowners Reduce PFAS Exposure?
If you're concerned about PFAS, consider these practical steps:
- Review your local water utility's annual water quality report.
- Check whether your utility has published PFAS monitoring results.
- If needed, have your water tested by a certified laboratory.
- Use a quality point-of-use water filtration system.
- Replace filter elements according to manufacturer recommendations.
Berkey® Water Filters and PFAS Reduction
Berkey® countertop gravity-fed water filter systems are designed for everyday household use.
When equipped with Black Berkey® Elements, Berkey® systems are designed to reduce a broad range of unwanted contaminants, including PFAS, while leaving beneficial minerals in the water.
For most households, the Big Berkey® Water Filter offers an excellent balance of capacity, convenience, and daily performance.
Which Berkey® System Is Right for You?
| System | Capacity | Best For | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Berkey® | 1.5 Gallons | Singles & Couples | View Product |
| Big Berkey® | 2.25 Gallons | Most Families | View Product |
| Royal Berkey® | 3.25 Gallons | Larger Families | View Product |
| Imperial Berkey® | 4.5 Gallons | High Daily Water Use | View Product |
| Crown Berkey® | 6 Gallons | Large Households & Offices | View Product |
Related Drinking Water Guides
Interested in learning more about common drinking water contaminants? Explore our complete guides:
- Lead in Drinking Water Guide
- Arsenic in Drinking Water Guide
- VOC in Drinking Water Guide
- Hard Water Guide
- Drinking Water Contaminants Reference Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PFAS stand for?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a large family of synthetic chemicals used in many industrial and consumer products.
Why are PFAS called "forever chemicals"?
PFAS are highly resistant to natural breakdown because of their strong carbon-fluorine bonds. This allows them to remain in the environment for many years.
Can boiling water remove PFAS?
No. Boiling water does not remove PFAS and may actually concentrate them slightly as water evaporates.
Can I see PFAS in my drinking water?
No. PFAS are colorless and generally cannot be detected by taste or smell.
Should I test my water for PFAS?
If your local utility has identified PFAS in your area, or you live near a potential source of contamination, testing may provide valuable information about your household water.
Which Berkey® system is recommended for most families?
For most households, the Big Berkey® Water Filter is the most popular choice because it provides an excellent balance of capacity and convenience.
Where can I buy replacement filters?
You can shop all replacement elements and accessories on our Berkey® Replacement Filters page.
Final Thoughts
PFAS contamination has become an important drinking water topic throughout the United States. As scientific understanding continues to evolve, homeowners increasingly want practical ways to understand their local water quality and reduce exposure where appropriate.
Reviewing your local water quality report, testing your water when necessary, and using a quality countertop gravity-fed filtration system are practical steps toward improving confidence in your everyday drinking water.
If you're looking for a versatile countertop system for home use, explore the Big Berkey® Water Filter, our most popular choice for families.