PFAS Water Filter in Sunrise

What PFAS are

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances have been used since the 1940s in nonstick, stain-resistant and water-repellent products and in some firefighting foams. They break down very slowly. The two most studied are PFOA and PFOS. The EPA has been setting national drinking water limits for several PFAS; check the EPA's site for the current status and dates.

What Sunrise has published

• Sawgrass: the 2025 report states UCMR5 monitoring in January and July 2025, with all results below the EPA's minimum reporting levels.
• Springtree and Southwest: the 2025 reports say UCMR5 testing was done in 2024, with results in the 2024 annual reports.
• Detailed data: the city's Water Quality Report page explains that customers can request UCMR5 data from the Director of Utilities, by mail to 777 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, or by calling (954) 888-6000.

Which filters to trust

Only systems certified under NSF/ANSI 53 (filters) or NSF/ANSI 58 (reverse osmosis) for PFOA/PFOS reduction have been tested for it. Certification is model-specific: look up the exact model number on the certifier's listing, not a brand-wide claim. Living Water does not claim its systems remove PFAS; if PFAS is your concern, ask for the exact model's certification before buying anything, from anyone.

How to read a PFAS listing

• Check the standard: NSF/ANSI 53 for filters or NSF/ANSI 58 for RO.
• Check the claim: the listing should say PFOA/PFOS reduction, not just PFAS in general.
• Check the model number: it must match the exact unit you are buying, including the replacement cartridge.
• Check the capacity: certified reduction applies up to the rated gallons; after that, change the filter.

Because Sunrise publishes results by plant, it is worth knowing which plant feeds your home before you decide anything. Use the service area map on the city's Water Quality Report page.

Testing your own tap

PFAS testing needs a certified laboratory and careful sampling. An in-home screening cannot measure it. If you are on a private well, PFAS is not covered by any utility testing; see well water in Sunrise and screening vs. lab analysis.

What Jorge can help with

During the free visit, Jorge tests what affects taste, odor and scale, walks you through your service area's report, and explains which certifications to check if PFAS is on your list. See choosing a drinking water system in Sunrise.

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