PFAS in Well Water
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of synthetic "forever chemicals" used in firefighting foam, non-stick and stain-resistant products. They don't break down in the environment and are increasingly found in private wells — particularly near airports, military bases, landfills and manufacturing.
Why it matters
PFAS exposure is associated with certain cancers, thyroid and immune effects, and developmental harm. In 2024 the EPA set the first enforceable federal drinking-water limits for several PFAS compounds (for public systems), with limits for PFOA and PFOS at 4 parts per trillion — a sign of how potent these compounds are even at tiny concentrations.
Testing for PFAS
PFAS require a specialized certified-lab test — standard at-home strips don't detect them. Prioritize testing if you're near a known source. Contact your state environmental agency; many run PFAS sampling programs for private wells in affected areas.
How to remove PFAS
The three treatments proven to reduce PFAS are reverse osmosis, high-quality activated carbon, and anion-exchange resin. Reverse osmosis is the most thorough point-of-use option; if you use carbon, choose a unit specifically tested against PFAS and change the media on schedule.
Match the filter to your test result
Carbon pitchers and faucet filters do not remove arsenic or nitrate. Reverse osmosis is the point-of-use fix; a whole-house system handles the rest of the home.
APEC ROES-50 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System
5-stage RO, ★ 4.7 — removes arsenic, nitrate, lead, fluoride and PFAS.
Check price on Amazon →Whole-house well water system
Treats every tap, shower and appliance — the right scale for sediment, iron, sulfur and bacteria on a private well.
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Under-sink RO removes arsenic, nitrate, lead and PFAS at the kitchen tap.
Shop on Waterdrop direct →Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Re-test after installing to confirm the system is working.