PFAS Water Filters Comparison Guide

The Science Behind PFAS Filtration

When it comes to filtering harmful contaminants from drinking water, global health organizations like the CSIRO, EPA, and WHO agree: Activated Carbon Block filters are one of the most effective and natural solutions for reducing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These "forever chemicals" have been found in water supplies worldwide, leading scientists to work tirelessly to find the most efficient, accessible, and sustainable filtration methods.

The breakthrough? Activated Carbon Block filtration, which leverages natural carbon to trap and remove PFAS from water at an impressive rate. This method, derived from natural sources, offers a safe and eco-friendly way to address PFAS contamination. But how does it compare to other filtration technologies? Below, we explore the top three PFAS filtration methods and what you need to know before choosing a solution.

1. Activated Carbon Block Filters (The Gold Standard)

Effectiveness: ★★★★★

Pros:

- Recommended by CSIRO, EPA, and WHO for it's ability to remove PFAS

- Targets up to 75+ other harmful contaminates

- Uses natural activated carbon to adsorb contaminants

- Tested and proven effective in real-world water treatment

- Cost-effective

- Simple installation (you don't need a plumber to install it)

- Allows good-for-you nutrients to safely flow through into drinking water

Cons:

- Requires filter replacement for performance

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2. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems

Effectiveness: ★★★★★

Pros:

- Removes a wide range of contaminants and bacteria, including PFAS

- Often used in municipal water treatment

Cons:

- Expensive to install and maintain

- Wastes significant amounts of water (2-3 gallons wasted per gallon filtered) and increases water bill

- Removes beneficial minerals, requiring remineralisation

- Not suitable for renters, requiring plumbing as a permanent solution

Reverse osmosis works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, blocking PFAS and many other contaminants from passing through. While it is highly effective, it requires a complex setup and is not the most sustainable or cost effective.

3. Emerging Modified Carbon-Based Technologies (Still Developing)

Effectiveness: ★★★☆☆ (Needs More Testing)

Pros:

- Innovative advancements in carbon filtration

- Potentially more efficient than traditional methods

Cons:

- Lacks substantial testing at the dam level

- Unclear long-term effectiveness and safety

- Often expensive and not widely available

Several new filtration methods are being developed using modified carbon structures and hybrid filtration systems. These experimental technologies show promise, but without large-scale testing in real-world water systems, their effectiveness remains uncertain.

Final Thoughts: Which Is the Best Filter For My Home? 

For most households, Activated Carbon Block filters remain the best balance of affordability, efficiency, and safety, particularily if you're renting. If you need maximum filtration and are a home owner, reverse osmosis is a good option, but be mindful of its cost and water waste. As for new carbon-based technologies while they may offer promising improvements in the future, they currently lack the long-term data and accessible price-point for any household. 

If you're looking for a PFAS filtration solution today, Activated Carbon Block filters provide a proven and natural way to protect your water and health and you can get an all-in-one filter+housing system, ready out of the box for just $189 now here.