PFAS Water Filter in Hillsboro Beach

What PFAS are

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have been used since the 1940s in non-stick cookware, stain- and water-resistant fabrics, food packaging and some firefighting foams. They break down very slowly. EPA's PFAS drinking water pages explain the federal rule and its timelines.

Finding data for a small system

EPA's fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) required sampling for 29 PFAS and lithium between 2023 and 2025 by public water systems serving 3,300 or more people, plus a nationally representative random sample of 800 smaller systems. Hillsboro Beach is a small town, so it may or may not have been included. Two ways to find out:

• Search the town's system in EPA's UCMR 5 data finder.
• Call the Water Department at 954-941-8937 and ask whether PFAS sampling has been done and where results are posted.

The 2025 report's contaminant table covers barium, fluoride, nitrate, sodium, disinfectants, byproducts, lead and copper.

Choosing a PFAS filter

• Look for NSF/ANSI 53 (filters) or NSF/ANSI 58 (reverse osmosis) certification that specifically lists PFOA and PFOS reduction.
• Match the exact model number on the certifier's listing. EPA has a page on identifying filters certified to reduce PFAS.
• Replace cartridges on schedule; claims apply only within rated capacity.

Living Water does not claim PFAS reduction for its systems. Jorge will tell you to verify certification for any model, including anything he shows you.

Testing your own tap

PFAS testing requires a certified laboratory using EPA methods. Jorge's free in-home screening covers chlorine, hardness, dissolved solids, pH and iron, not PFAS. He can help you read whatever data the town or EPA provides. See home screening vs. lab analysis.

Reading PFAS results when you find them

PFAS results are usually reported in parts per trillion, compound by compound, with a minimum reporting level below which a result shows as not detected. Compare any detected PFOA or PFOS value with EPA's current rule, which EPA explains on its PFAS drinking water pages along with compliance dates. If your property ever used a private well for drinking water, no utility data covers it; only a certified lab can tell you what is in that water.

If you are worried, start here

1. Ask the town for its PFAS sampling status.
2. Check EPA's data finder.
3. If you still want a filter, shortlist only certified models and compare their listings.

Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974 for a free test and a plain-language walk through your town report. Related: under-sink RO, drinking water systems.

Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist