Are you one of the many people who rely on pitcher filters to ensure clean drinking water? If so, you may be shocked to learn that most pitcher filters on the market do not effectively remove PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals that can contaminate drinking water sources and pose potential health risks.
While these filters are effective at reducing contaminants like chlorine, lead, and zinc, when it comes to PFAS, the results are often disappointing.
In this article, you will learn the shocking truth about pitcher filters and PFAS. We will explore what PFAS are, the different filtering methods available, and the top pitcher filter brands on the market. We will also provide considerations and recommendations for choosing a filter that effectively removes these harmful chemicals from your drinking water.
So, if you want to ensure that your drinking water is truly clean and safe, keep reading to find out why your pitcher filter may not be enough.
Key Takeaways
– Pitcher filters can effectively remove many contaminants, but not all are capable of removing PFAS.
– ZeroWater is the only pitcher filter brand to receive NSF certification for PFAS reduction, with real-world testing showing a success rate of 86-94.9%.
– Brita and PUR filters are less effective at removing PFAS, with Brita filters only removing about 52% and PUR filters removing 37%.
– Other types of filters, such as whole house systems, under-sink filters, reverse osmosis systems, and faucet filters, can also remove PFAS.
What Are PFAS?
So, you already know that PFAS are man-made chemicals that can contaminate drinking water sources and pose potential health risks. But do you know exactly what PFAS are?
Well, PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These are a group of man-made chemicals that are used in a variety of consumer products, including non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and even firefighting foam.
Sources of PFAS contamination in drinking water can include industrial releases, firefighting foam, landfills, and wastewater treatment plants. Long-term exposure to PFAS can lead to various health issues, including increased cholesterol levels, thyroid disease, and certain cancers.
So, it’s important to be aware of the sources of PFAS and the potential health risks associated with exposure.
Filtering Methods
If you’re looking to remove harmful contaminants like PFAS from your drinking water, it’s important to understand the various filtering methods available.
Two common filtering methods used in pitcher filters are activated carbon and ion exchange resins. Activated carbon filters work by adsorption, meaning the carbon attracts and holds onto certain chemicals and impurities. Ion exchange resins, on the other hand, work by exchanging ions in the water for ions in the resin, effectively removing certain contaminants.
When it comes to effectiveness in removing PFAS, activated carbon filters are generally more effective than ion exchange resins. However, the combination of both methods can lead to even greater removal rates.
It’s important to note that not all pitcher filters are created equal, and it’s crucial to look for filters that are certified by NSF/ANSI for PFAS removal. Additionally, regularly replacing filter cartridges is key to maintaining the effectiveness of the filter.
Pitcher Filter Brands
When choosing a water filtration brand to remove harmful contaminants from your drinking water, you’ll want to consider popular options like Brita, PUR, ZeroWater, and Clearly Filtered. However, not all pitcher filters are created equal when it comes to removing PFAS.
In fact, an effectiveness comparison reveals that ZeroWater and Clearly Filtered are the only brands that offer pitcher filters specifically designed to remove PFAS. Long term health risks associated with PFAS exposure make it crucial to choose a water filter that effectively removes these harmful chemicals.
Brita filters have been found to only remove about 52% of PFAS from water, while PUR filters only remove 37%. In contrast, ZeroWater filters have been certified by NSF for PFAS reduction and have been shown to remove between 86% and 94.9% of PFOA and PFOS from drinking water in real-world testing. Clearly Filtered also offers pitcher filters specifically designed for PFAS removal.
When it comes to protecting your health, choosing the right water filtration brand can make all the difference.
Considerations and Recommendations
Consider factors like filtration technology, performance, and overall quality to ensure that the water filter you choose effectively removes harmful contaminants from your drinking water. When selecting a pitcher water filter, it’s important to look for NSF/ANSI certifications for PFAS removal, use high-quality components, and replace filter cartridges regularly.
Additionally, it’s crucial to stay informed about PFAS levels in your local water supply and take action if needed. Regular testing of your water can help monitor PFAS levels and ensure that your filter is working effectively.
Filter replacement is also an essential consideration when choosing a water filter. Most pitcher filters typically require replacement every two to three months, depending on usage and quality. Neglecting to replace filters regularly can lead to reduced performance and potentially even harmful contaminants leaching back into your drinking water.
By taking these factors into account, you can choose a pitcher water filter that effectively removes PFAS and other harmful contaminants from your drinking water, providing you and your family with safe and healthy water to drink.
Conclusion
Now that you know the shocking truth about pitcher filters and PFAS, it’s important to take action to protect yourself and your family from these harmful chemicals.
While pitcher filters may be convenient and affordable, they’re not always effective at removing PFAS from drinking water. It’s important to do your research and choose a filter that’s been proven to effectively remove PFAS, such as reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters.
In addition to using a reliable filter, you can also take steps to reduce your exposure to PFAS by avoiding non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and other products that may contain these chemicals.
By being proactive about protecting your health and the health of your loved ones, you can ensure that you’re drinking clean, safe water free from harmful contaminants.
