No! Water softeners do not remove PFAS from water. However, You can take action to lessen your possible exposure to PFAS if you are concerned about your health. PFAS can be effectively removed from water supplies using filters using reverse osmosis membranes or activated carbon.
To function properly, all water treatment systems need routine maintenance. Unmaintained water treatment systems will gradually lose their effectiveness.
PFAS are unlikely to be eliminated by other types of typical water treatment systems, such as water softeners or iron filtration systems.
PFAS cannot be removed by boiling water. Despite the fact that many households have whole-house iron or water filtration systems, sample data show that these systems DO NOT eliminate PFAS.
To minimize PFAS in drinking water, there are point-of-use (water is treated at a single faucet or site) and point-of-entry (all water in your home is treated) treatment solutions. In general, point-of-use therapy is less expensive than point-of-entry. When the device is installed and maintained correctly, the following treatment solutions are efficient in removing PFAS from drinking water.
Water is pushed through a membrane with microscopic pores using electricity in reverse osmosis. Water can travel through the membrane while it blocks numerous pollutants. A more feasible point-of-use treatment option is reverse osmosis (not at point-of-entry).
Granular activated carbon filter: As water flows through the filter, contaminants build up on it.
MPCA, MDH, and West Central Environmental Consulting examined one point-of-use carbon filter alternative for drinking water filtration at a sink faucet that is affordable and simple to install: Evaluation of a Small, In-Home Filter’s Capability to Remove Perfluorochemicals (PDF).
ALSO SEE: Does Brita remove PFAS?
Some ion exchange resin systems have the potential to remove PFAS, however, it’s important to check that the system you choose complies with the NSF/ANSI certification standards stated below.
To combat PFAS, search for products certified to NSF/ANSI 53 (for filters) or NSF/ANSI 58 (for other water treatment) (reverse osmosis).
Visit our homepage to learn more about various treatment choices, their advantages and disadvantages, and average costs. You can choose the best alternative for your household with the assistance of a water treatment expert.
Although homeowners may install equipment in homes they own and inhabit, water treatment systems in Minnesota must be installed by a certified and bonded plumbing or water conditioning professional. After installation, it is crucial to maintain the treatment system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.