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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOs) are a group of human-made chemicals that have gained significant attention due to their widespread presence in the environment, including drinking water supplies. PFAs/PFOs in Wisconsin drinking water have raised concerns due to their persistence, potential health effects, and the challenges associated with their removal from water sources. The experts with Aquarius Water Conditioning can get rid of these dangerous contaminants for good. We can recommend and install the best Kinetico water filtration system for the job.
Why Do We Have This Issue?
The primary cause of PFA/PFO contamination in drinking water is industrial and commercial activities. These chemicals have been widely used in various applications, including manufacturing, firefighting foams, stain-resistant coatings, water-repellent treatments, and nonstick cookware. Both are highly resistant to degradation in the environment, which means they persist for long periods and can accumulate over time.
PFAs/PFOs can enter water sources through various routes. One of the primary sources is industrial discharges, where contaminated wastewater from manufacturing plants or industrial facilities is released into rivers, lakes, or groundwater. In areas where industrial activities involving PFAs/PFOs have been concentrated, nearby water supplies can be at a higher risk of contamination.
Another significant source of PFAs/PFOs contamination is the use of firefighting foams that contain these chemicals. Firefighting training sites, military bases, and airports are examples of locations where large quantities of PFAs/PFOs -containing foams have been historically used. Improper disposal or accidental releases of these foams can lead to contamination of nearby water sources.
Additionally, landfills and waste disposal sites can contribute to PFAs/PFOs contamination. These chemicals can leach into the soil and infiltrate groundwater, potentially affecting nearby wells and drinking water sources. Landfills that received waste containing industrial waste may pose a higher risk of contamination.
Agricultural practices can also be a source of PFAs/PFOs contamination in drinking water. The use of biosolids or reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants as fertilizers or irrigation water can introduce these chemicals into the soil, which can then seep into groundwater or surface water bodies.
How These Substances Can Get Into Your Water Supply
Once PFAS/PFOA enter water sources, they can travel and contaminate drinking water supplies through various routes. Groundwater is particularly susceptible to contamination, as these chemicals can slowly migrate through the soil and reach aquifers. Surface water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and reservoirs can also become contaminated if they receive runoff from contaminated areas or if nearby groundwater sources are affected.
It’s important to note that PFAS/PFOA contamination can affect both public water systems and private wells. Private wells located near industrial facilities, airports, or areas with a history of firefighting foam usage are particularly susceptible to contamination.
Fixing the Problem
Once present, PFAS/PFOA can contaminate groundwater and surface water bodies, posing a risk to drinking water supplies. Ensuring the safety of drinking water requires monitoring, testing, and implementing appropriate treatment technologies to remove these contaminants.
The experts with Aquarius Water Conditioning have years of experience removing PFAs/PFOs in Wisconsin drinking water. If you would like more information on how we can help, please get in touch with us whenever you like. You can use our online contact form, or you can give us a call at 888-741-9025.
