PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These are man-made chemicals used in products designed to resist staining, grease, water, and heat. They’ve been widely used since around the 1950s and have slowly contaminated air, soil, water, and living organisms globally. Because they break down very slowly over time, they are often called “forever chemicals.”
PFOS and PFOA are two of the most recognized PFAS compounds. These and other types of PFAS may enter Texas water supplies through:
- Industrial runoff
- Manufacturing waste
- Firefighting foam
- Landfills
- Groundwater contamination
- And other sources
Because many Central Texas homes rely on private wells that draw from local aquifers, testing for PFAS has become increasingly important.
Are PFAS Harmful?
Research is still ongoing, but long-term exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to possible health concerns. Potential risks may include:
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Immune system impacts
- Increased risk of certain cancers
- Reproductive effects
- Hormone interference
- Developmental concerns in children, such as low birth weight and behavioral changes
Many homeowners are looking for reliable water filtration for PFAS to help reduce exposure in drinking water.
EPA Drinking Water Limits for PFAS
The EPA has established extremely low drinking water limits for certain PFAS compounds. Because PFAS cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, testing is the first step for homeowners concerned about local water quality.
Testing Water for PFAS in Central Texas
Central Texas water conditions vary widely from one property to another. Testing helps determine whether PFAS treatment may be recommended for your water supply. PFAS testing is especially important for:
- Homes using private wells
- Rural properties
- Homes near industrial areas
- Properties near airports or firefighting training areas
- Homeowners concerned about water quality
Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning provides comprehensive water testing for local homeowners. Simply contact our team, schedule an appointment, and we will send a sample of your water to our reputable laboratory partners.
Treatment Solutions: How To Remove PFAS From Water at Home?
To remove PFAS, or forever chemicals, from your home water in Texas, we recommend using a certified reverse osmosis (RO) filter system. These systems can remove between 90% and 99% of many PFAS compounds. A specialized multi-stage granular activated carbon (GAC) filter is also an effective treatment option.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Certified reverse osmosis systems are one of the most effective options for removing PFAS. RO systems are especially popular in Central Texas because they can also address other water concerns commonly found in local supplies, such as heavy metals and chlorine.
Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) Filters
Specialized multi-stage GAC filters are another solution for PFAS reduction. These systems help trap contaminants as water passes through the filtration media. Many Texas homeowners combine carbon filtration with other water treatment technologies for broader water quality improvement.
HomeShield™ Whole House Filter With PFAS Reduction
Parobek offers and installs the HomeShield™ Whole House Filter. This is a great option for those looking for a home water filtration system for PFAS that treats water throughout the entire property.
Many RO filters and other systems are point-of-use designs. This means they only filter water at one point in the home, usually the kitchen sink. The HomeShield™ is a high-capacity filtration system designed to reduce PFAS chemicals from the point of entry, effectively treating all water coming in. Benefits may include:
- Comprehensive Filtration: This system can help reduce multiple PFAS, including PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHpA, and PFHxS.
- No Wastewater During Operation: Unlike some systems, HomeShield operates without flushing water down the drain during normal use.
- Smart Monitoring Features: Built-in monitoring tracks water usage and alerts homeowners when service is needed.
- Better-Tasting Water: The system helps reduce chlorine taste, odor, and other common impurities.
- Compact Design: Its space-saving, single-tank setup works well in garages, utility rooms, and smaller installation spaces.
