If you’ve been researching your water quality, you’ve probably come across the term PFAS—often referred to as “forever chemicals.” For homeowners in Cincinnati and across Northern Kentucky, understanding PFAS is becoming increasingly important when it comes to protecting your water, your home, and your health.
At True Flow Services, we believe in educating homeowners on what’s actually in their water—and PFAS is one of the most talked-about concerns today.
What Does PFAS Mean?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a large group of man-made chemicals used since the 1940s. These chemicals were designed to resist heat, water, and oil, which made them extremely useful in manufacturing.
You’ll find PFAS in everyday products like:
- Non-stick cookware
- Waterproof clothing
- Food packaging
- Firefighting foam
- Stain-resistant carpets and furniture
The problem? They don’t break down easily—earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”
How Do PFAS Get Into Drinking Water?
PFAS can enter drinking water in several ways, especially in areas connected to large water sources like the Ohio River.
Common sources include:
- Industrial discharge from manufacturing plants
- Runoff from landfills
- Use of firefighting foam at airports and training sites
- Wastewater treatment plants that can’t fully remove PFAS
Once these chemicals enter rivers, lakes, or groundwater, they can make their way into municipal water systems—even after treatment.
Are PFAS Regulated?
The Environmental Protection Agency has been increasing focus on PFAS in recent years. While water utilities, including Greater Cincinnati Water Works, monitor and manage water quality, PFAS regulations are still evolving.
Key points:
- PFAS are now being tested more frequently
- New, stricter guidelines are being introduced
- Acceptable levels are extremely low due to potential health risks
Even when water meets current standards, many homeowners still choose to reduce PFAS exposure further.
Why Are PFAS a Concern?
PFAS are concerning because they:
- Do not break down in the environment
- Can accumulate in the human body over time
- May be linked to long-term health risks with prolonged exposure
Research is ongoing, but studies have suggested potential connections to:
- Immune system effects
- Hormonal disruptions
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Certain cancers
Because of this, many homeowners are choosing to take a proactive approach to water quality.
Can PFAS Be Removed From Drinking Water?
Yes—but not all filtration systems are effective.
Standard filters (like basic pitcher filters) may reduce some contaminants, but PFAS require more advanced treatment methods.
Most Effective Solutions:
1. Reverse Osmosis Systems
These systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane that removes a wide range of contaminants, including PFAS.
2. Activated Carbon Filtration
High-quality carbon filters can significantly reduce PFAS, along with chlorine and other chemicals that affect taste and odor.
3. Whole-Home Filtration Systems
For full protection, many homeowners install systems that treat water at the point it enters the home.
Do You Have PFAS in Your Water?
The only way to know for sure is through testing. While municipal reports provide general information, they don’t always reflect what’s happening in your specific home.
Factors that influence your water quality include:
- Distance from the treatment plant
- Condition of local infrastructure
- Age and material of your plumbing
Why Local Expertise Matters
Water conditions in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area are unique due to reliance on river water sources and regional infrastructure. Check out our post on Water Filtration 101
At True Flow Services, we help homeowners:
- Test their water for contaminants like PFAS
- Understand the results in plain terms
- Choose the right filtration system for their needs
- Professionally install and maintain those systems
Take Control of Your Water Quality
PFAS may be invisible, but their impact can be long-lasting. The good news is that with the right information and solutions, you can take control of what’s in your water.
As the top local plumbing company serving Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati, True Flow Services is here to help you protect your home and your health with reliable, customized water filtration solutions.