What You Can Do
If PFAS has been detected in your water, here are specific steps you can take.
1. Water filters that remove PFAS
Not all water filters remove PFAS. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58 for PFAS reduction.
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
Most effective for PFAS removal (>90% reduction for most compounds). Under-sink systems cost $150–$400. Requires filter replacement every 6–12 months.
Activated Carbon (GAC)
Effective for longer-chain PFAS like PFOA and PFOS (60–95% reduction). Pitcher filters ($20–$40) or faucet-mount systems ($20–$60). Less effective for shorter-chain PFAS like GenX.
Ion Exchange
Effective for some PFAS compounds. Typically whole-house systems ($1,000–$3,000). Best for well water with known contamination.
Important: Boiling water does NOT remove PFAS. It may actually concentrate them.
Look for the NSF certification mark on any filter you purchase. NSF maintains a searchable database of certified products at nsf.org.
2. Request your water quality report
Your water utility is required to provide an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) to all customers. This report details what was found in your water.
- Contact your water utility and request the most recent CCR
- Ask specifically about PFAS testing results
- If your utility has not tested for PFAS, ask when they plan to
- CCRs are often available on your utility’s website or at epa.gov/ccr
3. Get independent testing
If you want to test your own water (especially if you’re on a private well):
- Tap Score (mytapscore.com) — PFAS test kits starting at ~$300
- SimpleLab — mail-in water testing
- Contact your state health department for local testing options
- Some states offer free or subsidized PFAS testing for private well owners
4. Contact your elected officials
Your representatives need to hear from constituents about PFAS contamination.
- Find your US Representative: house.gov
- Find your US Senators: senate.gov
- Find your state legislators: search “[your state] state legislature”
- Attend a city council or county commission meeting and raise the issue during public comment
5. Connect with your community
Many communities affected by PFAS contamination have organized advocacy groups. Connecting with neighbors who share your concerns can amplify your voice.
- Search for PFAS community groups in your area on Facebook
- The National PFAS Contamination Coalition connects affected communities across the country
- Your state environmental agency may have a PFAS program with community resources
6. Reduce PFAS exposure beyond water
While drinking water is a major exposure pathway, you can also reduce PFAS exposure from other sources:
- Avoid non-stick cookware (choose cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic)
- Choose PFAS-free food packaging when possible
- Look for PFAS-free clothing and textiles (avoid “stain-resistant” or “water-resistant” treatments)
- Avoid microwave popcorn bags and fast-food wrappers, which often contain PFAS