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PFAS in Drinking Water: What They Are & How To Remove Them

Reduce PFAS, PFOA & PFOS With Professional Water Treatment

PFAS in water has become a great concern for homeowners across Minnesota and the United States. Often called “forever chemicals,” PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that can remain in the environment for many years because they do not easily break down.

If you’re concerned about PFAS in drinking water, Tri County Water Conditioning can help. We provide professional water testing and advanced systems designed to reduce PFAS, including PFOA and PFOS, in water.

Since 1956, our family-run company has helped homeowners throughout Central Minnesota and the South Metro improve their water quality. With trusted treatment solutions, professional installation, and top-quality service, you can depend on our team. Contact us to schedule a water quality consultation.

What Are PFAS, PFOA & PFOS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of synthetic chemicals used to make products resistant to heat, grease, water, and stains. Because these chemicals break down very slowly, they are commonly known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS have been used in products such as:

  • Non-stick cookware
  • Food packaging
  • Waterproof clothing
  • Firefighting foam
  • Industrial manufacturing
  • Some household products

PFOA and PFOS are two of the best-known types of PFAS. Although many manufacturers have reduced or stopped using these chemicals, they remain in the environment and may still be present in some groundwater and drinking water supplies.

Current EPA drinking water regulations include limits for these and other PFAS compounds. On April 10, 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for 6 PFAS.

PFAS are found in diagram

  • Compound

  • Final MCLG

  • Final MCL (enforceable levels)

  • Compound

    Final MCLG

    Final MCL (enforceable levels)

    PFOA

    Zero

    4.0 parts per trillion (ppt)(also expressed as ng/L)

  • Compound

    Final MCLG

    Final MCL (enforceable levels)

    PFOS

    Zero

    4.0 ppt

  • Compound

    Final MCLG

    Final MCL (enforceable levels)

    PFHxS

    10ppt

    10ppt

  • Compound

    Final MCLG

    Final MCL (enforceable levels)

    PFNA

    10ppt

    10ppt

  • Compound

    Final MCLG

    Final MCL (enforceable levels)

    HFPO-DA (commonly known as GenX Chemicals)

    10ppt

    10ppt

  • Compound

    Final MCLG

    Final MCL (enforceable levels)

    Mixtures containing two or more of PFHxS, PENA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS

    1(unitless)
    Hazard Index

    1(unitless)
    Hazard Index

Water across the country has frequently shown PFAS contamination, and our area is no exception. As water treatment specialists, Tri County Water Conditioning is dedicated to implementing the highest standards possible. We work to ensure that your home’s water meets or exceeds EPA-established NPDWR levels. Our services include comprehensive testing, installation of advanced treatment technologies, and ongoing maintenance. We are continually monitoring communities in our service area. Some areas known to have PFAS in water are in the East Metro of Minneapolis/St. Paul in Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, and surrounding communities.

Why Are Forever Chemicals in Water (PFAS) a Concern?

Researchers continue to study the long-term health effects of PFAS exposure. While research is ongoing, health agencies recommend reducing exposure whenever possible, particularly if elevated levels are found in drinking water.

PFAS cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled, making professional water testing essential. At Tri County Water Conditioning, we believe in educating our local community. If you don’t know what is in your water, you can’t respond. That’s why we work with residents to improve their water and provide peace of mind.

Potential health concerns include:

  • water drop icon Effects on the immune system

  • water drop icon Increased cholesterol levels

  • water drop icon Disruption of the body’s natural hormones

  • water drop icon Developmental effects in infants and children

  • water drop icon Increased risk of certain cancers

  • water drop icon Reproductive effects

PFAS in Minnesota Drinking Water

PFAS have been detected in water supplies across the country, including portions of Minnesota. Some areas affected include Woodbury, Cottage Grove, and Lake Elmo. Many other local communities have also experienced PFAS contamination in groundwater and drinking water.

While not every water supply is affected, both municipal water and private wells can contain PFAS depending on local conditions. If you have concerns about PFAS in water or other contaminants, professional lab testing can help determine whether treatment is recommended.

Check out the MN Dept. of Health resources for more information about PFAS in local areas.

How To Remove PFAS From Water

One of the most effective ways to reduce PFAS in drinking water is with a reverse osmosis (RO) system. Reverse osmosis uses multiple stages of filtration, including a specialized membrane that helps reduce many dissolved contaminants before water reaches your faucet. These systems are installed at the point of use, typically under the kitchen sink, to provide cleaner water for drinking and cooking.

Our team will help determine whether a reverse osmosis system is the right solution based on your home’s water quality and your needs.

Reverse Osmosis Systems for PFAS Reduction

Tri County Water Conditioning installs NSF/ANSI Standard 58-certified reverse osmosis water filtration systems designed to reduce PFAS and many other contaminants commonly found in drinking water. Our reverse osmosis systems offer:

  • High reduction rate (up to 98%) of PFAS contaminants, including PFOS and PFOA in water
  • Better-tasting drinking water
  • Cleaner water for cooking
  • Reduced chlorine taste and odor
  • Reduced sediment
  • Convenient under-sink or whole-house installation
  • Professional, ongoing service

Our experienced technicians ensure your system is properly installed and continues operating at its best with routine maintenance and filter replacements. Contact us today to schedule a water quality test and service consultation in Minnesota!

ERO385, reverse osmosis system

Why Choose Tri County Water Conditioning?

For more than 65 years, homeowners have trusted Tri County Water Conditioning for reliable water treatment services and exceptional customer support. We offer:

  • Decades of experience
  • Free in-home water testing
  • Family-run service
  • Professional installation
  • Ongoing maintenance and service
  • Honest recommendations
  • High-quality PFAS removal systems

Our goal is to educate homeowners, provide accurate testing, and recommend treatment solutions that fit your unique water conditions. If you’re concerned about PFAS in your drinking water or other contaminants, Tri County Water Conditioning can help. Contact us to schedule a water testing appointment.

Learn More About Removing PFAS With a Reverse Osmosis System Today!

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FAQs About PFAS in Water

  • No. Boiling water does not remove PFAS and may concentrate the chemicals as water evaporates. Certified filtration is the best option for reducing PFAS.

  • Standard Brita pitcher filters do not reliably remove PFAS and are not certified to do so.

  • PFAS exposure usually does not cause noticeable or immediate symptoms. Long-term exposure to certain PFAS has been associated with changes in cholesterol, immune response, heightened risk of some cancers, and other health effects. Research is still ongoing.

    Learn more on the EPA’s website.

  • Yes. Reverse osmosis is one of the most effective technologies available for reducing PFAS in drinking water. Many NSF-certified reverse osmosis systems are designed to reduce PFAS, PFOA, PFOS, and other dissolved contaminants while improving the taste and quality of water.

  • Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a group of synthetic chemicals. They break down very slowly and are persistent in the environment. PFOS is one type of PFAS that has been found in some drinking water supplies.

    One of the most effective ways to reduce PFAS and PFOS in drinking water is with a reverse osmosis system. This advanced filtration technology also helps reduce other contaminants, including lead, arsenic, nitrates, chlorine, and sediment.

    Other treatment technologies for reducing PFAS may include activated carbon filtration and special ion exchange systems. The best treatment depends on the type and concentration of PFAS in your water, your water source, and your unique needs.

  • Yes. PFAS testing typically requires laboratory analysis. Tri County Water Conditioning offers paid lab testing for many specific water contamination concerns.

  • PFAS can affect both private wells and municipal water supplies. If your well is located in an area with known contamination or you have concerns about your drinking water, professional testing is the best way to determine whether treatment is needed.