Water filtration systems that use granular activated carbon (GAC) or reverse osmosis (RO) can be effective in eliminating PFAS compounds that are commonly tested by commercial laboratories. Both GAC and RO filters can reduce PFAS substances, but they provide less water flow than a standard water faucet. Fortunately, filtering PFAS is easy with the right type of filter. In general, PFOS and PFOA are resistant to most conventional chemical and microbial treatment technologies.
The most reliable methods for filtering PFAS from drinking water include granular absorption of activated carbon, ion exchange resins and reverse osmosis (1). It is recommended to use a third-party to test the filter using a standardized protocol to ensure consistent results. The Clearly Filtered water jug is an example of a humble water jug filter that can remove nearly as many contaminants as a reverse osmosis system, including 99.8% of PFA. When looking for a drinking water filter that reduces PFA, it is important to find one that achieves this to an exceptional standard.
A recent study by scientists at Duke University and North Carolina State University reveals that, while using any filter is better than no filter, many household filters are only partially effective in removing toxic perfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, from drinking water. Installing and maintaining PFA water filters is necessary, but some filters are much easier to install and maintain than others. Not all water filters are guaranteed to lower PFA levels, so it is important to compare prices and read guides before investing in the best filter to remove PFA.
