Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the most persistent and widespread environmental contaminants in the world today. Because these synthetic compounds resist heat, water, and chemical breakdown, they have been used for decades in countless products, from firefighting foams and waterproof fabrics to food packaging and industrial coatings. Unfortunately, this same durability allows PFAS to move easily through soil and groundwater, leading to widespread contamination of drinking water supplies across the United States.
At Advanced Environmental Services (AES), we provide expert PFAS drinking water testing, treatment, and remediation services to help municipalities, businesses, and property owners ensure safe, compliant water sources. Our mission is to protect public health and restore clean water through scientifically proven, cost-effective solutions.
To learn more about our PFAS water treatment solutions or PFAS contamination in general, contact our team today.
How PFAS Contaminate Drinking Water
Sources of PFAS Contamination
PFAS enter drinking water primarily through industrial discharges, landfill leachate, and runoff from firefighting foam (AFFF) used at airports, military bases, and training facilities. Over time, these chemicals seep into soil and migrate into groundwater or surface water systems, both common sources of municipal and private drinking water.
Typical contamination pathways include:
- Industrial manufacturing runoff from facilities using PFAS in coatings, plating, or chemical production.
- Wastewater treatment discharge that contains PFAS-laden biosolids or effluent.
- Firefighting foam runoff (AFFF) from emergency response or training exercises.
- Leachate from landfills containing PFAS-based consumer and industrial waste.
Because PFAS are soluble and mobile, they can spread over long distances underground, making detection and cleanup complex. Even small concentrations, measured in parts per trillion, can exceed regulatory limits and pose risks to human health.
Why PFAS in Drinking Water Is a Growing Concern
PFAS contamination in drinking water is a major environmental and public health challenge. Studies from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that exposure to PFAS through drinking water can contribute to several serious health effects.
Health Risks Linked to PFAS Exposure
- Increased cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risks
- Hormonal and immune system interference
- Liver and kidney damage
- Reduced fertility and developmental effects in infants and children
- Elevated cancer risk, particularly for kidney and testicular cancers
Because PFAS accumulate in the body over time, long-term exposure, even at low levels, can have lasting impacts. This makes regular testing and proactive mitigation essential for both residential and commercial water systems.
Learn more about health effects of PFAS.
PFAS Drinking Water Regulations and Standards
To protect public health, the EPA has established maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for six PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS. These limits, measured in parts per trillion, reflect the extremely low concentrations at which PFAS are considered harmful.
Many states, including Missouri and neighboring Midwest regions, are adopting or tightening their own PFAS regulations for groundwater and drinking water systems. AES stays current with all EPA and state-level requirements to ensure clients remain in full compliance.
Testing and Treating PFAS in Drinking Water
AES provides comprehensive PFAS water testing and treatment services for municipalities, industries, and private well owners. Our services include:
1. PFAS Water Testing and Analysis
We collect and analyze samples using EPA-approved methods to determine PFAS presence, concentration, and compound type. Results are used to design effective treatment strategies tailored to your water source.
2. Advanced PFAS Water Treatment Solutions
AES utilizes proven technologies to remove PFAS from drinking water, including:
- Granular Activated Carbon (GAC): Ideal for long-chain PFAS removal.
- Ion Exchange (IX) Resins: Effective for both long- and short-chain PFAS.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): Provides high-efficiency filtration for municipal and commercial water systems.
3. System Design, Installation, and Maintenance
Our engineers design turnkey PFAS treatment systems that integrate seamlessly into existing infrastructure, ensuring long-term performance and regulatory compliance.
Why Choose Advanced Environmental Services for PFAS Drinking Water Solutions
Proven Expertise
AES has decades of experience in environmental remediation and testing. Our team includes scientists, engineers, and field technicians specializing in PFAS contamination.
Cutting-Edge Technology
We use advanced analytical tools and PFAS treatment technologies to deliver reliable, measurable results for drinking water safety and compliance.
Local Knowledge and Regional Reach
Based in St. Louis, AES serves communities throughout Missouri and the Midwest, combining regional experience with national expertise.
Commitment to Safety and Compliance
We follow strict EPA guidelines and provide full documentation to ensure clients meet or exceed all regulatory standards.
Frequently Asked Questions About PFAS in Drinking Water
How do I know if my drinking water contains PFAS?
PFAS are invisible and tasteless. The only way to confirm contamination is through professional laboratory testing.
Can PFAS be filtered out of drinking water at home?
Yes. Point-of-entry systems using activated carbon, ion exchange, or reverse osmosis can significantly reduce PFAS concentrations.
Is bottled water safe from PFAS?
Not always. Some bottled water brands have tested positive for PFAS. It’s best to review test results or use certified filters.
How often should I test my water?
For private wells or facilities near known contamination sites, AES recommends annual PFAS testing or more frequent sampling if regulations change.
Contact AES to Learn More About PFAS in Drinking Water
Ensure your drinking water is safe from PFAS contamination with professional testing and treatment services from AES. Our experts provide reliable, science-based solutions to restore clean water and protect your health.
Contact Advanced Environmental Services today at (314) 865-2662 or reach out online to schedule PFAS water testing or learn more about our PFAS drinking water treatment options.
