Several brands of water filter pitchers remove more than 99% PFAS from water including EpicWater (Pure or Nano), Lifestraw Home, Aquagear, and ProOne. While these brands remove the PFAS substances, PFOA and PFOS, the Clearly Filtered pitcher removes over 95% of nine different PFASs.
More than 110 million Americans consume water that is contaminated with PFAS or PFOA everyday. Water filter pitchers are an effective means of removing toxic PFAS and PFOA and improving the quality of the drinking water. However, just because a water pitcher can filter out pollutants does not guarantee it can also filter out PFAS.
This article is going to take you through which water filter pitchers can remove PFAS from water as well as explain what PFAS is, how it gets into your water, its negative effects on human health, and where to buy a PFAS water testing kit.
What is PFAS, PFOS and PFOA?
According to CDC, Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of compounds used in the production of fluoropolymer coatings and goods that are resistant to heat, oil, stains, grease, and water.
Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) are two examples of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).
Because PFAS are effective repellents, organizations began using them in a variety of items as early as 1940. These things include non-stick goods, polishes, waxes, paints, cleaning products, and fire-fighting foams.
How PFAS, PFOS, and PFOA enter the water supply.
There are several ways to come into contact with PFAS. This could happen if you drink PFAS-contaminated water or eat PFAS-contaminated food. Exposure can also occur as a result of using PFAS-containing items or through public water systems and drinking water from wells.
PFAS water contamination is most commonly connected with areas close to a specific facility, such as an industrial site where PFAS were used to make other products and firefighting locations like oil refineries and airfields.
In fact, PFAS contamination is an urgent problem across the U.S. because of the use of PFAS in fire-fighting foam. Especially on and around military bases and airports.
Concerningly, PFAS is toxic and is currently estimated to contaminate the drinking water of nearly 110 million Americans.
Negative effects of PFAS on human health.
According to the EPA, exposure to PFAS, PFOA, and PFOS at certain levels can cause the following effects on human health:
- Effects on development.
- Cancer.
- Damage to the liver.
- Immune system disorders.
- Thyroid disorder.
- Concerns about the cardiovascular system.
- Reproduction issues.
- Low birth weights.
PFAS is so persistent, that if we consume any, it stays in our body and accumulates.
The best water filter pitchers and dispensers that remove PFAS
Today’s market is flooded with water filtration pitchers. However, not all of them can remove PFAS, PFOA, and PFOS from water.
The ones that do often use activated carbon filters to adsorb natural organic compounds, taste and odor compounds, and synthetic organic pollutants found in water as well as PFAS, PFOS, and PFOA.
Ideally though, to remove PFOA and PFOS from water, a filter pitcher should use a dual filtration system that combines membrane nanofiltration with activated carbon or sophisticated ion exchange technology.
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) can remove up to 100% of the PFAS in water, depending on the filtration rate and thickness of the filter.
- Nanofiltration is effective at removing 99% of PFAS by using membrane technology that removes very small molecules from water (including PFAS).
- Ion exchange, and anion exchange resins in particular, can also remove PFAS from water. However, the effectiveness of ion exchange depends a great deal on the type of the PFAS, and is able to remove between 20% and 90% of PFAS depending on whether they have a short (e.g., PFBS) or long chain (e.g., PFOA) structure.
Water filter pitchers with a combination of these three filtration methods are very effective at removing the PFAS from your drinking water.
The water filter pitcher should ideally carry NSF/ANSI certification Protocol P473. This certification confirms the filter has been tested to remove PFOA and PFOS from drinking water.
1. Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher
Clearly Filtered water pitcher with Affinity Filtration Technology removes >95.0% of PFASs from water using granular activated carbon and proprietary technology that recognizes the ionic structure of the contaminants..
This is our #1 pick as it has been tested to remove 9 different PFAS contaminants by more than 95.0 % (not just PFOA and PFOS like most other pitchers). These include:
- EPFB: >95.0 % removal
- GenX: >99.4 % removal
- NFBS: >95.0 % removal
- PFBS: >95.0 % removal
- PFBA: >95.0 % removal
- PFNA: >95.0 % removal
- PFOS: >99.5 % removal
- PFOA: >99.0 % removal
- PFHA: >95.0 % removal
It also removes up to 99.9% of the 365 plus hazardous and dangerous tap water pollutants. It’s the only pitcher that’s been independently tested to meet NSF 42, 53, 244, 401, and 473 criteria.
Fluoride, lead, BPA, glyphosate, and PFASs are all removed from your drinking water with this pitcher, but the natural minerals and nutrients are retained.
Pros:
- Removes a suite of PFAS contaminants.
- BPA-free.
- Lifetime guarantee warranty.
- Eliminates odors and bad tastes.
Cons:
- No filter change indicator.
- Takes time to filter water.
2. Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher.
The Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher contains a proprietary activated carbon filter that filters 2000% more toxins than the leading water filter pitcher, including total trihalomethanes, chromium 6, fluoride, chloramines, bromodichloromethane, and many other contaminants.
This brand has been carefully tested against NSF/ANSI standards and is designed to eliminate chlorine, fluoride, lead, and the dangerous chemicals PFOA (99.6% removal) and PFOS (99.8% removal).
The Epic Pure pitcher removes >99.6% of PFAS from water.
The solid carbon block water filters are 6mm thick and protect you from pollutants while keeping vital trace elements like calcium and magnesium in your water. Each high-quality gravity water filter generates 150 gallons of clean, contaminant-free drinking water and filters out 99.99 percent of all impurities from tap water.
Pros:
- Removes PFAS and other contaminants.
- BPA-free.
- Digital filter indicator.
- Recyclable filter.
- Multi-stage filtration.
Cons:
- Some reviewers complain about it stopping to work after several uses.
3. Epic Nano Filter Pitcher.
The Epic Nano filter pitcher is a 150 gallon long-lasting filter made in the United States that is designed to remove viruses, germs, and cysts. It is NSF/ANSI tested to remove chlorine, lead, and PFAS (PFOA and PFOS).
This brand uses nanofiber media, activated carbon and ion exchange to remove 2000% more impurities while keeping important trace elements like calcium and magnesium in your water.
The Epic Nano pitcher removes >99.6% of PFAS from water.
Pros:
- Removes PFAS and other contaminants.
- BPA-free.
- Filters 2000% more contaminants.
- Digital filter indicator.
- Multi stage filtration.
4. The LifeStraw Home Pitcher
The LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher is a sleek and environmentally friendly water filter pitcher that protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, lead, mercury, and chemicals such as PFAS, chlorine, and organic chemical matter, as well as reducing turbidity.
The Lifestraw pitcher removes 99.33% of PFAS from water based on NSF 473 standards.
This brand not only removes contaminants from water but also improves the taste. It comes with a membrane Microfilter that lasts 264 gallons, or one year, and an activated carbon plus an ion exchange filter that lasts 40 gallons or two months.
Pros:
- NSF certified to remove PFAS and many other contaminants.
- BPA-free.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Large capacity.
- Long lasting.
Cons:
- Some reviewers complain about mold.
5. Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
The Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher removes 2,000% more toxins from water, including lead, chlorine, PFOA/PFOS, microplastics, VOC, trace medicines, and new herbicides and pesticides.
The Aquagear pitcher removes 99.9% of PFAS from water.
This model has a filter that has been thoroughly tested and will maintain essential trace minerals like calcium and magnesium in your water that other filters will remove. Its filters create 120 gallons of water and last three times as long as conventional filters.
Pros:
- Removes PFAS.
- BPA-free.
- Recyclable.
Cons:
- Some reviewers complain that it does not remove tastes like chlorine.
- Quite costly to replace filters.
6. ZeroWater Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers
ZeroWater Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers are NSF certified to remove 94.9% PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) from water. They remove 99 percent of total dissolved solids (TDS) for the finest tasting water possible.
The performance data sheet for ZeroWater filter pitchers and dispensers shows it is NSF certified for Lead, chromium, and PFOA/PFOS (94.9%) removal. It has an Ion exchange filter and a free TDS meter.
Pros:
- Removes PFAS.
- BPA-free.
- NSF certified.
Cons:
- Some reviewers complain that its filter doesn’t last long.
- Some reviewers complained that their pets got sick, and humans got headaches from drinking its water.
- Some reviewers complain of bitter, metallic, and moldy tastes.
7. Seychelle pH2O Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher
The Seychelle pH2O Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher has a 200 gallon capacity and a USA-made filter that can remove toxic chemicals such as trihalomethanes, PFOA, PFOS, PCB’s, DDT, glyphosate, herbicides, lead, mercury, asbestos, chromium 6, benzene, MTBEs, VOCs, THMs, chloroform, arsenic, and fluoride, among others.
The Seychelle pitcher removes 97.9% of PFAS from water.
The brand works by reducing water micro clusters from 12 to 4-6 molecules, allowing alkaline water to absorb them more rapidly and efficiently. Its filters have received ISO 14000 certification.
Pros:
- Removes PFAS.
- Removes odors.
- BPA-free.
- No after-tastes.
Cons:
- Some reviewers complain of poor customer service.
8. ProOne Water Filter Pitcher
The ProOne Water Filter Pitcher includes the G2.0 filter, which has been independently tested to NSF 473 standards for the removal of 99.9% PFAS including:
- PFBS
- PFNA
- PFOS
- PFOA
- PFHA
- PFDA
- PFSS
- PTFE
- PTOH
This filter also has one of the longest filter lifespans of any water purification pitcher. Fluoride, lead, chlorine, heavy metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, PFAS, and other toxins can all be removed by the brand while leaving the healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium into the water, considerably improving water quality.
Pros:
- Removes PFAS and other contaminants.
- BPA-free.
- Longest filter life.
Cons:
- No filter indicator.
9. Fuhaieec Water Filter Pitcher
Fuhaieec water filter pitcher is a 10 cup water purifier pitcher that claims to have been independently tested for fluoride, lead, and PFAS/PFOA removal. Unfortunately, we found no supporting evidence to back this up.
Pros:
- BPA-free.
- Eliminates odors and bad tastes.
- Removes limescale.
Cons:
- We cannot verify that the Fuhaieec water filter pitcher has actually been tested to remove PFAS.
10. ZeroLiquid Water Filter Pitcher
The 6-cup or 10-cup ZeroLiquid (Water Filter Pitcher for Tap Water) can deliver 0 ppm TDS and eliminate all the unpleasant chemicals and other contaminants from your tap water leaving you with clean drinking water.
ZeroLiquid’s unique filter can reduce PFAS (PFOA and PFOS). It has been independently tested by TUV to NSF 53 standards, which means it can reduce PFAS to below 70 parts per trillion – unfortunately, they have not provided the test results or percentage of PFAS removal.
Pros:
- Reduces PFAS and other contaminants.
- BPA-free.
- NSF certified to reduce PFAS.
- Multi-filtration stages.
11. LifeStraw Home Water Filter Dispenser
The LifeStraw Home water filter pitchers and dispenser is a sleek and environmentally friendly design that will protect you and your family by removing over 30 contaminants such as bacteria, parasites, microplastics, lead, mercury, and chemicals such as PFAS, chlorine. Organic chemical matter such as pesticides and herbicides, sediment, sand, and cloudiness are also removed.
The Lifestraw dispenser is certified to NSF 473 standards to remove 99.33% of PFAS from water.
The brand’s microfilter lasts a year and filters 264 gallons of water. It has an activated carbon filter as well as an ion exchange filter that lasts 40 gallons, or around two months when used regularly. All LifeStraw, home water filter pitchers are compatible with both filters.
Pros:
- NSF certified to remove PFAS.
- BPA-free.
- Easy to fill.
- Removes bad tastes and odors.
Cons:
- Some reviewers complain about Mold.
12. OWIARA Water Filter Dispenser
The OWIARA Water Filter Dispenser is a 38-cup digital alkaline countertop water filtration system pitcher that claims to filter out PFAS such as PFOA. However, there is no supporting evidence that it has been tested to do so.
Pros:
- Fast filtration.
- High capacity.
Cons:
- We cannot verify that the OWIARA water filter has been tested to remove PFAS.
- Some reviewers complain it is difficult to source replacement filters.
13. ZeroWater water cooler jug
The ZeroWater cooler jug is a 5-gallon filtered water with a 5 stage filtration system that is also NSF certified to reduce 94.9% PFAS (PFOA/PFOS).
For the finest tasting water, the brand also removes 99 percent of total dissolved solids (TDS). It also removes pesticides, metals including lead and mercury, minerals, and salts.
A refillable water bottle, two 5-stage ion exchange technology filters, and a free TDS meter are also included with the package.
Pros;
- Removes PFAS.
- BPA-free.
Cons:
- Does not universally fit all water dispensers.
PFAS Specialized Water Testing
The only way to find out if you have PFAS in your water supply is to get it tested in a lab.
MyTapScore have a good quality PFAS home water testing kit for $289.00. It’s an expensive test but it covers a suite of 14 different PFAS contaminants, including PFOA and PFOS.
- Order today and they’ll send out the kit and instructions on how to collect the samples.
- Shipping is included.
- Samples are tested in a certified laboratory and can detect concentrations to below 2 parts per trillion (PPT).
- You’ll get the results in about 5 days.
For more information and to order your PFAS water testing kit click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do carbon filters remove PFAS?
Activated carbon block filters can effectively remove PFAS and PFOA from water. On average, filters derived from activated carbon remove 73% PFAS and PFOA. It is effective at removing organic chemicals, taste, and odor compounds because it is a highly porous substance with a large surface area to which pollutants can adsorb.
Will a Brita filter remove PFAS?
Brita filters cannot remove PFAS or PFOA from water. Brita filters are effective at reducing or chlorine, which has a foul taste, but it is not designed to remove or even lower the concentration of PFAS in your tap water.
Brita filters are effective at removing chlorine’s taste and odor as well as reducing zinc, copper, mercury, and some contaminants.
Does ZeroWater remove or reduce PFAS?
ZeroWater is a unique 5-stage filter that removes 99.6% of all total dissolved particles, including PFAS, from your water in minutes. It is the only water filter that can reduce the TDS in water to zero.
It comes with a TDS meter, which allows you to test the water’s quality.
This brand has a variety of models which not only remove the hazardous PFAS but also filter out other contaminants from your drinking water, keeping you safe.
Which water filters can remove GenX?
GenX is a short chain PFAS and removing it can be more complex than PFAS alone.
For more detailed information on GenX and which water filtration systems can remove it, read this post by Water Purification Guide.
Does Reverse osmosis remove PFAS?
Reverse Osmosis systems can remove >99% of all PFAS from water and are a great way to keep you and your family safe.
Read this Water Purification Guide for more information on Reverse Osmosis and PFAS removal.
Conclusion
If you are concerned about the safety of your water, then you will need to filter it. If you are unsure about your water quality, invest in an NSF-certified water pitcher to protect you and your family from harmful PFAS chemicals.
However, before making a purchase, keep in mind that every water filter pitcher is different, and no filter can accomplish everything. Some pitchers remove impurities that have a poor taste, including chlorine, zinc, and hydrogen sulfide, while others remove lead. That a pitcher can filter out lead and other toxins, including VOCs, heavy metals, medicines, and hormones, does not guarantee that it will be able to filter out PFAS.
Ultimately, a water filter pitcher’s ability to remove PFAS, PFOS, or PFOA is determined by its filters and NSF/ANSI certification, which is P473.
