PFAS Water Filter in Sweetwater

PFAS in a few lines

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances have been used in nonstick coatings, stain- and water-repellent products, some firefighting foams and industrial processes. They persist for a very long time in the environment. WASD's report names likely sources as manufacturing and industrial discharge, certain consumer products, occupational exposures and certain firefighting activities.

The numbers that apply to Sweetwater

WASD's 2025 report includes a table titled 2025 Additional Contaminants Monitoring. For the Main System it lists:

• PFOS: 33 ppt (range 7 to 33), against a federal MCL of 4 ppt.
• PFOA: 13 ppt (range 3 to 13), against a federal MCL of 4 ppt.
• PFHxS: 7 ppt (range 2 to 7), MCL 10.
• PFNA: 5 ppt (not detected to 5), MCL 10.
• Hazard Index: 1 (range 0.2 to 1), MCL 1.

The report explains that these standards were recently promulgated and that initial compliance monitoring is underway, which is why the violation column reads not applicable.

Where federal rules stand

The EPA finalized limits for six PFAS in April 2024. In 2025 it announced plans to extend the compliance deadline for PFOA and PFOS and to rescind limits for several others. Those changes have been moving through the rulemaking process, so check the EPA's PFAS drinking water page for the current status rather than relying on an older article.

Choosing a PFAS filter

1. Pick a technology with certified PFAS performance: carbon block under NSF/ANSI 53 or reverse osmosis under NSF/ANSI 58.
2. Confirm the certification lists PFOA and PFOS reduction.
3. Look up the exact model number on the certifier's listing. The EPA's guide to certified PFAS filters links to it.
4. Replace filters on the certified schedule.

A whole-home chloramine filter and a PFAS-certified drinking water filter are different products. See carbon vs. RO.

Testing your own tap

PFAS are measured in parts per trillion, which requires a certified laboratory. Ask the lab which method it uses and which compounds it reports, so you can compare the result with WASD's table. A household test kit that does not name its method and detection limits will not tell you much.

Where Jorge fits

Living Water does not claim its systems remove PFAS. Jorge's free in-home test covers chloramine, hardness and other everyday factors, not PFAS. He can walk you through WASD's report and the certifications to look for. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.

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