Because PFAS can persist in the body and environment for years, many homeowners are concerned about what long-term exposure through drinking water could mean for their health and their families.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals used for decades in a wide range of products and industrial processes. They are often called “forever chemicals” because many PFAS do not easily break down in the environment and can persist for long periods of time.
PFAS in drinking water has become a major concern across the United States, including Virginia and especially across coastal areas of North Carolina from Elizabeth City to Wilmington, where ongoing monitoring and research have increased public awareness.
PFAS has become one of the most widely studied and discussed water quality issues in the United States.
Quick Signs PFAS May Be a Concern
• You live near industrial sites, airports, or military bases
• Your water comes from a private well or groundwater source
• Local news or reports mention PFAS in your area
• No visible signs, but concern about long-term exposure
• Recent water testing or reports showing PFAS detection
If You’re Concerned About PFAS, Testing Is the Only Way to Know
PFAS cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled in water. Because they are present at very low levels and do not cause visible changes, testing is the only reliable way to determine if they are present. Don’t be fooled though, these small amounts can do catastrophic damage to your body.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals used for decades in manufacturing and industrial applications. They are known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil.
Because many PFAS do not break down easily, they can persist in the environment and accumulate over time.
Why PFAS Are a National Topic
PFAS have become a major focus of research and public reporting because they are widespread, persistent, and can be present at very low levels.
In 2023, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimated that at least 45% of U.S. tap water may contain one or more PFAS (based on testing for a limited set of PFAS).
Not All PFAS Are the Same
There are thousands of PFAS compounds. Most routine tests look for a subset of PFAS, which means results can vary based on the lab method and the list of PFAS being measured.
This makes proper testing and interpretation especially important.
How PFAS Can Enter Drinking Water
PFAS can reach drinking water through multiple pathways.
Common examples include:
- Industrial discharges and manufacturing areas
- Firefighting foam use and training sites (including airports and military facilities)
- Landfills and waste disposal sites (leachate)
- Wastewater and biosolids pathways
- Surface water and groundwater movement over time
Regional Awareness: Virginia & North Carolina
Homeowners in Virginia and North Carolina have been especially aware of PFAS due to years of regional research, monitoring, and public discussion.
In Virginia, recent well-focused research has highlighted that PFAS can be present even in rural private water supplies.
In North Carolina—particularly in southeastern areas—PFAS has been a prominent topic due to extensive monitoring efforts and public reporting.
This increased visibility has led many families to search for answers about testing results, exposure pathways, and next steps.
How to Check PFAS Levels in Your Area
Because PFAS testing is not always included in standard water analysis, many homeowners start by reviewing publicly available data.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) maintains a national tap water database that allows you to search by zip code and view detected contaminants, including PFAS.
Visit: https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/
This tool can provide helpful insight into water quality trends in your area and whether PFAS has been reported nearby.
How People Are Typically Exposed
For most households, drinking water-related exposure occurs through:
- Drinking water
- Cooking and food preparation
- Long-term daily use
Because PFAS can persist, long-term exposure is often a key focus of ongoing research.
Regulatory & Monitoring Snapshot
Regulations and guidance for PFAS have evolved quickly in recent years as new science becomes available.
In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced enforceable drinking water standards (Maximum Contaminant Levels) for several PFAS compounds and provides detailed information on PFAS, including current standards and ongoing research.
EPA’s nationwide monitoring program (UCMR 5) is collecting PFAS occurrence data from public water systems to better understand where PFAS are being detected.
Health Perspective
Scientific research on PFAS is ongoing. Public health agencies note that studies have found associations between exposure to certain PFAS and certain health outcomes.
The likelihood of health effects depends on many factors, including:
- The specific PFAS compound
- The level and duration of exposure
- Individual health and environmental factors
How to Remove PFAS from Drinking Water
Removing PFAS requires specialized filtration systems designed to target these compounds.
Common solutions include:
- Reverse osmosis systems that filter out drinking water
- Advanced filtration systems designed for PFAS reduction
Because PFAS levels and compounds vary, the right solution depends on accurate testing and system design.
Do You Need a Water Test?
PFAS testing requires specialized laboratory analysis and is often more complex and costly than standard water testing. Because of this, it is not typically included in routine residential water tests.
A good starting point is to review available data for your area. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) provides a national database where you can search your zip code to see known PFAS detections in public water systems.
Visit: https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/
This can help you understand whether PFAS has been detected near you and whether further testing may be worth considering.
For private wells or specific concerns, certified laboratory testing may be required.
We do offer systems that remove PFAS, in case you would like to skip further testing and go straight for the solution.
Not All PFAS Problems Are the Same
PFAS contamination varies significantly depending on location, water source, and environmental factors.
Different compounds behave differently, and treatment effectiveness can vary depending on what is present.
Without proper testing, it is difficult to determine the most effective solution.
Get Clear Answers About Your Water
PFAS testing is highly specialized and often requires advanced laboratory analysis. For many homeowners, reviewing local water data is the first step in understanding potential exposure.
If you are concerned about your water quality, we provide professional testing for a wide range of common water issues—including iron, hardness, sulfur, and other contaminants that frequently affect homes throughout Virginia and North Carolina.
Understanding your overall water quality can help identify treatment needs and ensure your water is properly addressed.
Schedule a professional water test for most common water problems and get a clear, customized plan for your home.
FAQ
Why are PFAS called “forever chemicals”?
They are often called “forever chemicals” because many PFAS do not easily break down and can persist in the environment for long periods of time.
Is PFAS only a concern in North Carolina?
No. PFAS have been detected in many locations across the U.S., including Virginia and other states.
Can PFAS be present in private wells?
Yes. PFAS have been detected in private wells in multiple regions. Testing is the only way to confirm presence.
How do I learn what’s in my water?
Public water users can review Consumer Confidence Reports. Private well owners should use certified lab testing.
Why do standards and guidance keep changing?
PFAS science is evolving rapidly, and regulatory updates reflect new research and improved detection methods.
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