Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) in Water
Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) are fluorinated organic chemicals.
They are water and lipid-resistant synthetic compounds. PFOS and PFOA are used as a coating on leathers and fabrics, in the production of stain-repellent carpeting, and are found in fire resistant foams among other items. They are also used to make the coating on non-stick cookware, to create household cleaning products, and to produce pesticides. These Perfluorochemicals (PFC’s) were used as early as the 1950s to produce treated cookware, clothing, food packages and carpeting because of their ability to repel water, fire, oil, and stains.
What Does This Mean For The Environment?
The process used to manufacture the household and industrial items that use PFOS and PFOA caused large amounts of these chemical compounds to be deposited into our soil and have polluted the air. The chemicals have also leached into water supplies. The maker of Post-Its, 3M, was a primary manufacturer of PFOS. The company voluntarily began phasing out its use of the chemical in 2000. Eight additional product manufacturers took similar action in 2008, agreeing to completely eliminate using PFOS and PFOA by 2015.
How PFOS And PFOA Impact Our Water Supply
Since the chemical substances are not easily broken down, they have been termed persistent and their effects are still being felt today. PFOA in water is a concern for our environment and our homes due to its long-lasting effects.
According to the EPA, exposure to PFOS and PFOA has been linked to:
- Developmental delays
- Reproductive health issues
- Neuroendocrine issues affecting the kidneys and liver
- Cancer
- Thyroid imbalances
- Cardiovascular concerns
Every household depends on a safe water supply to clean their homes, wash their clothing and cleanse their bodies. You use water to feed and hydrate your families, nourish your pets and power your appliances. Since water is in such frequent use by every member of your family, it is important to ensure its safety through effective testing.
How Watersparks Can Help
We offer two testing options at Watersparks. Our basic water testing is free and takes less than 10 minutes in your home. Once the testing is completed and the results are analyzed, we’ll discuss them with you in detail and go over your options for eliminating any contamination that may be in your home’s water supply.
The results of your in-home test will determine if further testing in our lab is necessary. Our certified lab provides a more comprehensive test and takes a few days. Your Watersparks Water Expert will discuss this option with you if he finds it necessary.
How To Know If You Need To Test Your Water
Immediately test the water in your home if you experience any of the following:
- Water tastes “off”
- Water is not clear
- Water has an unpleasant odor
- Water bills increase unexpectedly
You rely on clean water to power your home and feed your family every day. Contact your local Watersparks Water Expert to test for the presence of PFC’s in your water. We can help make sure your home’s water is better tasting and safer for your family’s everyday use.