Indianapolis Homeowners Face Growing Threat from Forever Chemicals in Their Drinking Water
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” have become a pressing concern for Indianapolis residents as new research reveals widespread contamination in Indiana’s drinking water supply. A study by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management found high levels of PFAS in the drinking water of 24 counties, highlighting the urgent need for effective detection and removal solutions in the Indianapolis metropolitan area.
Understanding PFAS: The Forever Chemical Crisis
Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS possess a chemical structure that makes them extremely difficult to break down. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has identified more than 12,000 types of PFAS, which have been widely used in manufacturing processes, firefighting foams, and countless household products for decades.
These chemicals are particularly concerning because they do not degrade easily, and once used, they remain in the environment and can contaminate air, drinking water, groundwater and soil. Studies have found that at least 97% of Americans tested had PFAS compounds in their body fluids, making this a widespread public health issue.
Health Risks Associated with PFAS Exposure
The health implications of PFAS exposure are severe and well-documented. Exposure to the toxins can have “significant negative health effects,” including cancer, thyroid disease, developmental delays in children, and complications in pregnant women. Exposure to per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has been linked to cancers, impacts to the liver and heart, and immune and developmental damage to infants and children.
Recent research has shown particularly strong connections between PFAS and kidney cancer. Recent research shows that these “forever chemicals” have a strong connection to causing renal cell carcinoma, or kidney cancer. One specific type of PFAS, called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), has been particularly linked to kidney cancer.
Federal Regulations and Indianapolis Impact
The Biden administration has taken significant action to address PFAS contamination. On April 26, 2024, U.S. EPA published a final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) to establish legally enforceable levels, called Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), for six PFAS in drinking water. Regulations will specifically limit the two most common PFAS chemicals — PFOA and PFOS — to four parts per trillion in drinking water, close to the lowest level at which the chemicals can be detected.
Regulated public water systems have three years to complete their initial monitoring (by 2027) for these chemicals, and systems that detect PFAS above the new standards will have five years (by 2029) to implement solutions that reduce PFAS in their drinking water.
Effective PFAS Removal Technologies
Fortunately, several proven technologies can effectively remove PFAS from drinking water. Those technologies include activated carbon adsorption, ion exchange resins, and high-pressure membranes. These technologies can be used in drinking water treatment facilities, in water systems in hospitals or individual buildings, or even in homes at the point-of-entry, where water enters the home, or the point-of-use, such as in a kitchen sink or a shower.
Activated Carbon Filtration
Activated carbon treatment is the most studied treatment for PFAS removal. GAC has been shown to effectively remove PFAS from drinking water when it is used in a flow through filter mode after particulates have already been removed. Research indicates that 76–87% of the PFAS chemicals studied are expected to be cost-effectively treated by GAC filtration.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Filters containing activated carbon or reverse osmosis membranes have been shown to be effective at removing PFAS from water supplies. Reverse osmosis uses energy to push water through a membrane with tiny pores. The membrane stops many contaminants while allowing water to pass through.
Ion Exchange Systems
The negatively charged cationic exchange resins (CER) are effective for removing positively-charged contaminants and positively charged anion exchange resins (AER) are effective for removing negatively charged contaminants, like PFAS. Negatively charged ions of PFAS are attracted to the positively charged anion resins.
Home Water Treatment Solutions
For Indianapolis homeowners concerned about PFAS contamination, investing in certified home water treatment systems is crucial. When purchasing home water treatment to address PFAS, look for products certified to NSF/ANSI 53 (for filters) or NSF/ANSI 58 (reverse osmosis).
Independent testing has shown promising results for various home filtration systems. The filter removed about 98 percent of forever chemicals in the drinking water tested in some high-performing units, while even more affordable options can achieve 66 percent of PFAS in water, that’s better than nothing.
Professional Water Treatment Solutions in Indianapolis
For comprehensive PFAS removal, many Indianapolis residents are turning to professional water treatment companies. Aqua Otter, a locally-based water treatment specialist, understands the unique challenges facing Indianapolis homeowners. We’ve served the local Hamilton County, IN community a long time and we plan on being here to continue to serve our clients for years to come.
The company emphasizes quality and reliability in their approach to water treatment. With a commitment to excellence, we provide state-of-the-art, salt-free water conditioners and whole house filtration systems that are made in the USA and built to last. Backed by certifications like ISO-9001 and the Water Quality Association, our products offer unmatched reliability.
Aqua Otter specifically addresses PFAS concerns with advanced treatment options. Reverse osmosis is an effective method to reduce PFAS in drinking water. This process uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants, including PFAS, by applying pressure to force water molecules through the membrane while leaving behind pollutants. Reverse osmosis helps ensure safer and cleaner drinking water by significantly reducing the presence of PFAS and other harmful substances.
For homeowners seeking comprehensive water treatment solutions, Drinking Water Systems Indianapolis IN offers professional installation and ongoing maintenance to ensure optimal performance against PFAS and other contaminants.
Taking Action: Protecting Your Family’s Health
Given the widespread nature of PFAS contamination and the serious health risks involved, Indianapolis residents should take proactive steps to protect their families. All water treatment units require regular maintenance to work properly, making professional installation and ongoing service essential for optimal protection.
The investment in proper water treatment is particularly important given that they are difficult and costly to remove at the municipal level. Reducing levels of PFAS in your water is an effective way to limit your exposure to these chemicals.
As federal regulations continue to evolve and monitoring requirements become more stringent, Indianapolis homeowners who invest in quality water treatment systems today will be better prepared for the future. With proven technologies available and local expertise from companies like Aqua Otter, protecting your family from PFAS contamination is both achievable and essential for long-term health and peace of mind.