The presence of PFAS chemicals in the nation’s drinking water has become a serious issue. These chemicals can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer, in both adults and children. In response to this risk, Elkay has produced an industry-first water filter that is certified to reduce two of the most widely used chemicals in the PFAS group. Read on to learn more about the chemicals it removes, and why you should protect yourself, your employees, and your facility’s patrons from these dangerous substances.
Terminology
EPA is the United States Environmental Protection Agency
PFAS are a class of over 12,000 types of synthetic chemicals called perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
PFAO is perfluorooctanoic acid
PFOS is perfluorooctane sulfonic acid
NPDWR stands for National Primary Drinking Water Regulation. It creates legally enforceable primary standards and treatment techniques that apply to public water systems.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s. They have been used in the manufacturing of nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain resistant fabrics and carpets, some cosmetics, some firefighting foams, and products that resist grease, water, and oil such as pizza boxes and fast food wrappers. PFAS are also known as “forever chemicals,” because they break down very slowly, and seemingly stick around “forever.” Scientists have discovered that PFAS are linked to serious health risks including cancer, infertility, high cholesterol, and other problems. (See list at the end of this article.)
PFAS are everywhere, and can be found polluting the drinking water of communities all over the country. A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey has found at least one PFAS present in 45% of tap water samples tested. The EWG, (Environmental Working Group,) has created an interactive map of the U.S. that shows the levels of PFAS found in cities and towns that have conducted PFAS testing.
In addition to drinking water contaminated with PFAS, people can be exposed to PFAS in a variety of ways including eating certain foods that contain PFAS like fish or livestock, breathing contaminated air, using products made with PFAS or packaged in material using PFAS, and other ways.
In 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released new health advisories to spread awareness of PFAS, and provide actionable information to lower the levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They proposed a national primary drinking water regulation (NPDWR) for forever chemicals. This regulation is not finalized yet, but is expected to be announced this year (2024). In the meantime, the EPA recommends that drinking water utilities and community leaders take steps to inform residents of PFAS levels in the water, assess the level, scope, and source of contamination, and take action to reduce exposure. Individuals concerned about levels of PFAS found in their drinking water should consider taking steps, such as installing a home or point of use filter, to reduce their exposure.
Update on April 10, 2024:
EPA Sets New Drinking Water Limits for ‘Forever Chemicals’
The federal government has finalized the first-ever National Drinking Water Standard. This new standard comes as a result of significant testing completed since 2019, where dangerous levels of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” have been found in the nation’s drinking water. These national regulations will protect Americans from these harmful chemicals.
The enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels of PFOA and PFOS will be set at 4.0 parts per trillion, individually. This standard will reduce the levels of these PFAS in our drinking water to the lowest that are feasible for effective implementation.
Elkay’s New WaterSentry PFOA/PFOS Replacement Filter
Elkay’s new WaterSentry PFOA/PFOS Filter is the first of its kind in the industry. It was created to reduce Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS,) which are two of the most widely used and studied PFAS chemicals.
Filter Description:
This Elkay WaterSentry PFAS (PFOA/PFOS) Replacement Filter is to be used in Enhanced ezH2O Bottle Filling Stations. Filter is tested and certified to NSF/ANSI standards 42 and 53 for reduction of PFOA and PFOS; two prevalent PFAS chemicals, lead, Class 1 particulates, cysts and chlorine taste and odor. Filter should be replaced every 2,250 gallons, and expires 1 year after installation. It is equipped with a quick-disconnect, 1/4-turn installation, as well as an automatic inlet shut-off valve that closes when the filter is removed. Filter dimensions are 3-5/16” x 3-5/16” x 11-5/8”. Elkay model number 71300C.
Code Compliance: NSF 42, NSF 53, NSF 372 (lead free)
Buy WaterSentry PFAS Replacement Filter Online
This new filter is a WaterSentry filter, so it is an easy upgrade for any ezH2O bottle filling station that already utilizes a WaterSentry filter system.
If you are not simply replacing the filter on an Elkay bottle filler, and need to first install a filter head and bracket assembly, then you will need to buy both the new WaterSentry PFAS (PFOA/PFOS) Replacement Filter, as well as a Filter Head and Bracket Assembly (HAC) shown below.
Part: #65679
Buy Filter Head and Bracket Assembly Online
More Information about PFAS
What is the problem with PFAS? They are very slow to break down, and so they build up in the environment, animals, and people. According to the EPA, “Current peer-reviewed scientific studies have shown that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to:
- Reproductive effects such as decreased fertility or increased high blood pressure in pregnant women.
- Developmental effects or delays in children, including low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, or behavioral changes.
- Increased risk of some cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.
- Reduced ability of the body’s immune system to fight infections, including reduced vaccine response.
- Interference with the body’s natural hormones.
- Increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity.”
For more information about PFAS regulations, visit the EPA’s website on addressing PFAS.