You may have seen headlines recently about “forever chemicals” making their way into drinking water systems across the region. Known scientifically as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), these man-made chemicals have been used for decades in everything from firefighting foam and non-stick pans to water-resistant clothing and food packaging. But their resistance to breaking down in the environment has led to growing concern about their impact on public health.
At Clear Water, we believe knowledge is the first step toward protecting your home and family. Here’s what you need to know — and why now is the time to test your water.
PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily and can remain in the environment — and our bodies — for years. According to health experts, long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to:
These concerns are compounded by the widespread presence of PFAS in public and private water sources throughout the region.
Recent reports show that hundreds of water systems in the Northeast have detected elevated PFAS levels. While this issue gains attention, the federal response is evolving. According to a recent EWG article, proposed changes to federal drinking water protections could weaken landmark PFAS regulations — a move many experts worry may slow urgent action needed to protect communities. You can view the PFAS contamination in your area using this interactive map from the Environmental Working Group.
At the same time, new research from UMass-Amherst has raised red flags about the accuracy of popular DIY home water test kits. Researchers tested 11 of the most commonly purchased kits on Amazon and found that many produced inconsistent and unclear results — especially when measuring contaminants like iron. Worse, there’s no federal oversight or regulation for these kits, meaning results vary wildly by brand and methodology.
Here’s a quick look at DIY testing vs. lab testing:
At Clear Water, we offer professional PFAS testing tailored for residential systems. Our process includes:
If PFAS is discovered in your water, we’ll recommend a whole-home filtration system certified to protect from lead, PFOA/PFOS, cysts, chlorine taste, and odor. We also guide you toward NSF/ANSI 53 or 58-certified reverse osmosis or multi-stage carbon systems — the gold standard in PFAS filtration.
The presence of PFAS in regional water systems isn’t just a news story — it’s a serious concern for families throughout MA and RI. With evolving regulations, inconsistent DIY testing, and known contamination in dozens of towns, now is the time to act.
Protecting your home’s water is one of the smartest investments you can make for your health and peace of mind.
Ready to test your water? Contact Clear Water today to schedule your PFAS test or learn more about our residential filtration solutions.
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