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PFAS – The “Forever Chemicals”

“Forever chemicals,” technically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are synthetic chemicals used in various industrial applications and consumer products, including non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, and water-resistant fabrics. They are called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment and can persist for a long time, leading to potential accumulation in water sources.

In Australia, PFAS contamination in water supplies has become a growing concern, as these chemicals can pose health risks if consumed in significant quantities over time.

PFAS are resistant to most conventional water treatment processes. However, advanced filtration systems, including whole-house water filters with activated carbon or reverse osmosis membranes, are effective at reducing PFAS levels in water.Installing a whole-house water filter can provide homeowners peace of mind, ensuring that their water supply is safe for daily use.

Read more on the PFAS Australian Information Portal:

www.pfas.gov.au

How do I best remove PFAS from my home water supply?

To filter PFAS from water, you can use a water filter that uses either of these technologies:
  • Reverse osmosis

    A membrane technology that uses electrical energy to force water through a semi-permeable membrane. This method is very effective at removing PFAS and other contaminants, but it’s not practical for whole house treatment as the process is slow so can provide limited litres per hour.

  • Carbon Filters

    This can be in the form of Granular activated carbon or Activated Carbon Blocks. Similar to charcoal, this technology uses adsorption to trap PFAS and other contaminants from water. The system works by passing water through the GAC/Carbon media, which filters the compounds through a process called adsorption.

There are two primary types of home water treatment systems that remove PFAS:

  • Point-of-Use

    These systems that treat water at a specific location, like an undersink filter, or reverse osmosis unit.

  • Point-of-Entry

    Systems that are installed where water enters the home, treating all the water used for drinking, bathing, and other household activities.

Water Filter System Options

Good Coverage 💧

Puretec FilterWall F5, or Whole House 55l

Any PFAS reduction system should start with a whole house water filter to remove the amount of PFAS chemicals in your water before it enters your home.

Puretec FilterWall f5 in Charcoal

Better Coverage 💧💧

Puretec FilterWall F5 + Puiremix Z7

A better option is to add a second layer of carbon filtration under your kitchen sink to follow the FilterWall F series whole house filter. The Puremix-Z7 is the recommended option and includes a carbon layer to further absorb more of the PFAS chemicals.

Puretec FilterWall f5 in Charcoal

Best Coverage 💧💧💧

Puretec FilterWall F5 + Reverse Osmosis

Pair a FilterWall™ F Series whole house filter with a RO270 under sink reverse osmosis system

Puretec FilterWall f5 in Charcoal