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Logo for Martin Water Conditioning featuring a blue graphic of a person carrying an object, followed by bold text MARTIN and smaller text WATER CONDITIONING underneath, reflecting expertise in water conditioning and reverse osmosis solutions.

Are Chemicals

Hiding in Your Water?

You’ve probably heard of PFAS and microplastics and maybe you’re wondering what harmful substances might be lurking in your water. You’re not alone.
Schedule Your Free Water Test

Are Chemicals

Hiding in Your Water?

You’ve probably heard of PFAS and microplastics and maybe you’re wondering what harmful substances might be lurking in your water. You’re not alone.
Schedule Your Free Water Test

Family Owned &
Operated

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50+

Years in Business

How to Know If Your Water Is Contaminated

Because they’re so common in today’s world, it’s likely that your water contains PFAS, microplastics, or other chemical contaminants. They’re typically colorless, odorless, and tasteless, so testing is the best way to know for sure which of these substances, and how much, are present. Chronic exposure to these “forever contaminants” has been linked to a myriad of health problems, and many homeowners are looking for ways to remove them from their water supply.

Forever Contaminants, Explained

PFAS

PFAS (short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals developed in the 1940s and ’50s that keep food from sticking to pans and help fabrics stay dry in the rain, among many other everyday uses. Extremely durable and chemically stable, PFAS don’t break down naturally. Instead, they remain in the environment, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Industrial discharge, runoff from firefighting training sites or actual fires, landfill leachate, and even everyday household waste all contribute to PFAS making their way into soil and groundwater.

Microplastics

Plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters are known as microplastics. As plastic degrades, it breaks down into many smaller pieces, which make their way into our soil, water, and air — and stay there for decades, centuries, or even forever.

What Can PFAS & Microplastics Harm?

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Your Health

Information about forever contaminants’ effects on the human body is still emerging, but studies suggest there may be links to heart attacks, cancer, and reproductive issues.
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The Environment

Because forever chemicals and microplastics are so pervasive, they build up steadily in soil, surface water, and groundwater and contaminate them.
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Wildlife

As PFAS and microplastics become more prevalent in the environment, wildlife is more likely to be exposed to them. Studies have linked several wildlife health risks with exposure to these contaminants.

Removing Forever Chemicals from Your Water

If testing reveals PFAS or microplastics in your drinking water, there are effective options for treatment. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), some of the most reliable approaches for PFAS reduction include ion-exchange resins and reverse osmosis (RO) systems. RO systems are also one of the most effective methods of removing microplastics from water.

Schedule Your Free Water Test

What Your Neighbors Are Saying

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Frequently Asked Questions

No. PFAS and microplastics are not detectable by sight, smell, or taste. Water containing these contaminants can look, smell, and taste completely normal, which makes them difficult to identify without testing. Standard appearance or taste is not a reliable way to tell whether they are present. The only way to know for sure is through laboratory testing designed to detect PFAS and microplastics.
Yes, PFAS are now regulated in public drinking water supplies. Municipal water systems are required to monitor and comply with federal standards, while private well owners are responsible for testing their own water independently. Because testing requirements differ by water source, the only way to know your current levels is to test your water directly. If you rely on a well, periodic testing is especially important.
Both well water and municipal water can contain PFAS and microplastics. PFAS have been found in public water systems as well as private wells, often depending on nearby industrial activity, firefighting foam use, or other environmental sources. Microplastics have also been detected in both treated city water and private well water. Neither source is automatically free from contamination, which is why testing is the best way to know what is in your water.
These contaminants are worth taking seriously, especially because long-term exposure is a concern. PFAS have been studied for potential links to health issues, and research on microplastics is still developing. What’s clear is that reducing exposure is a reasonable precaution, particularly for households with young children or anyone with health vulnerabilities. Filtration can be a practical way to lower that exposure.
Most standard filters cannot. Basic pitcher filters, faucet filters, and refrigerator filters are generally not effective for removing PFAS or microplastics. Reverse osmosis and ion exchange are among the most effective treatment options for PFAS reduction. Reverse osmosis is also highly effective at removing microplastics because of its fine membrane filtration. It’s important to confirm that any system you choose is specifically rated for the contaminants you want to remove.

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When you need water conditioning services, trust Martin Water. For your no-obligation water analysis or for more information about our premium products, industry-leading warranties, and reliable service, contact us today!

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