PFAS contamination has become one of the biggest concerns in U.S. drinking water, including here in Mid-Missouri. These “forever chemicals” have been detected in nearly half of tested tap water nationwide, and standard municipal treatment systems don’t remove them. If you’re searching for water filters that remove PFAS, it’s important to understand which options actually work, and why. Mid-Mo Water Solutions offers free water testing to help homeowners identify PFAS and choose the right filtration setup for long-term protection.
Quick Answer – Can Water Filters Remove PFAS?
Yes, certain water filters can remove PFAS. Standard city treatment doesn’t eliminate these “forever chemicals,” which have been found in nearly half of U.S. tap water. To protect your home, choose a certified PFAS-removal filter such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis, and start with a professional water test.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They in My Water?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of over 12,000 man-made chemicals used in firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and more.
They enter drinking water through industrial runoff, contaminated soil, landfills, and firefighting sites. Because PFAS don’t break down, they accumulate in water sources, including Missouri’s groundwater and municipal systems. Municipal treatment systems do not fully remove PFAS, which is why certified home filtration is often necessary.
Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
PFAS have been linked to:
- Increased cancer risk
- Thyroid and hormone disruption
- Reproductive issues
- Compromised immune function
- High cholesterol
- Developmental issues in children
PFAS detections have been reported across Missouri, especially in areas near military bases, industrial corridors, and testing sites.
Many Missouri homes also deal with chlorine, lead, and other hidden pollutants. Learn more about common tap water contaminants and how they may be affecting your health.
How to Know If You Have PFAS in Your Water
At-home PFAS test kits exist, but they offer only basic readings. Professional PFAS water testing provides far more accurate results, and helps ensure you select the right filtration system for your home.
If you rely on a private well, your risks can be even higher, especially if you’re near agricultural land or industrial zones. Noticing odd tastes or smells? Here are the top signs your well water may be contaminated.
How to Reduce PFAS in Your Tap Water
Here are the most effective ways to lower PFAS exposure:
1. Get Your Water Tested
This is the only way to know your PFAS levels. Mid-Mo Water Solutions provides free PFAS water testing for homeowners across Mid-Missouri.
2. Install a Certified PFAS-Removal Filter
Choose one of the following depending on your needs:
- Activated carbon filtration (GAC)
- Reverse osmosis systems
- Whole-home filtration for multi-contaminant issues
Many homeowners assume that if a filter removes chlorine, it will also remove PFAS, but PFAS requires much stronger, certified filtration. If chlorine is also a concern in your home, here’s a helpful guide on chlorine in tap water and how to reduce it effectively.
3. Replace Filters on Schedule
Even the best PFAS filters lose effectiveness if not maintained.
4. Monitor Local Missouri PFAS Advisories
EPA and state agencies periodically release testing updates and PFAS regulations.
Which Water Filters Remove PFAS?
Activated Carbon Filters (GAC)
Granular activated carbon filters are one of the most proven and accessible ways to reduce PFAS in drinking water. They work by adsorption, binding PFAS molecules to the porous carbon surface.
If you want an easy, reliable way to cut PFAS levels throughout your home, carbon-based filtration is often the best starting point. Mid-Mo Water Solutions installs carbon filters designed for Mid-Missouri water.
Reverse Osmosis Systems (RO)
Reverse osmosis forces water through a semipermeable membrane fine enough to block PFAS molecules. RO systems are among the most effective solutions for removing:
- PFAS
- Lead
- Fluoride
- Nitrates
- Microplastics
If you’re looking for the highest level of purification for your cooking and drinking water, an RO system is often the go-to choice. Mid-Mo Water Solutions offers RO systems that meet NSF/ANSI standards for PFAS reduction.
Certified PFAS Filters
When choosing a PFAS-removal filter, look for certifications such as NSF/ANSI 53 (carbon filters) and NSF/ANSI 58 (reverse osmosis), which ensure verified PFAS reduction.
If you want PFAS protection across every faucet, shower, and appliance, a whole house filtration system installed by Mid-Mo Water Solutions is the most comprehensive long-term solution.
Wondering whether a water softener can remove PFAS? It’s a common misconception. Softeners reduce hard minerals, but they don’t remove chemical contaminants. If you’d like to understand their role better, here’s a guide on what water softeners remove.
FAQ – PFAS Filtration & Safety Questions
Do any water filters remove PFAS?
Yes. Activated carbon, reverse osmosis water filtration and certified whole-home systems, are the top choices for PFAS reduction.
Does boiling water remove PFAS?
No. PFAS are heat-stable chemicals, which means boiling water does nothing to reduce or remove them. Heating may kill bacteria, but it cannot remove chemical contaminants like PFAS.
How do I reduce PFAS in tap water?
Use certified PFAS filters, maintain them properly, and test your water regularly.
Is PFAS in bottled water?
Often, yes. A 2021 study by Johns Hopkins University found PFAS in 39% of bottled waters tested. A later study detected PFAS in 63% of bottled waters. So while bottled water may taste “cleaner,” it isn’t automatically safer, and in many cases, it still contains PFAS.
Does reverse osmosis remove PFAS?
Yes. Reverse osmosis is one of the most effective methods for removing PFAS from drinking water. RO membranes block PFAS molecules, along with other contaminants like lead, fluoride, and microplastics. For the best results, choose a reverse osmosis water filter that meets NSF/ANSI 58 standards for PFAS reduction.
Why Homeowners Trust Mid-Mo Water Solutions
Local Expertise in Water Quality
We understand the unique PFAS and contamination issues impacting Jefferson City, Columbia, Lake of the Ozarks, and surrounding areas.
Transparent Testing, Honest Results
We explain exactly what’s in your water, without scare tactics or upselling.
Filtration Systems That Fit Your Home
Whether you need a whole-home system, reverse osmosis, or a PFAS-specific filter, we customize solutions to your water problems.
Schedule Your Free PFAS Water Test Today
Take control of your water quality and protect your family from long-term exposure to PFAS.
📞 Contact Mid-Mo Water Solutions today to schedule your free PFAS water test and learn which filtration system is best for your home.
We proudly serve Jefferson City, Columbia, Lake Ozark, and surrounding Mid-Missouri communities.