What Are PFAS? A Simple Guide to “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS, or perfluorinated alkylated substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in manufacturing and consumer products for decades. Known for their resistance to water, heat, and stains, PFAS are found in things like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foam. Because of how they are made, PFAS do not break down easily over time, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”


These chemicals can find their way into soil and groundwater, where they remain for years and can spread far beyond their original source. Once PFAS enter your water supply, they’re very difficult to remove with standard treatment methods. That’s why understanding what they are, where they come from, and how to remove them is so important for keeping your water safe.





Why Are PFAS a Problem?



PFAS Water Testing


PFAS can build up in your body over time through repeated exposure. Even at low levels, these chemicals have been linked to a range of serious health concerns, including certain cancers, liver and heart problems, and developmental issues in children. Unlike some other contaminants, PFAS are odorless, tasteless, and colorless, so you won’t know they’re in your water without testing.


We’ve seen firsthand how PFAS can impact both private wells and public water supplies here in our area. While some public systems are required to monitor and reduce PFAS levels, private well owners are responsible for testing and maintaining their own water quality. Testing is the only way to know for sure whether your water is affected, and it’s the first step toward correcting the problem.


When Should You Test for PFAS?


Since PFAS can come from so many sources, we recommend testing if you rely on a private well or if you live near industrial areas, airports, or landfills. Even if you haven’t received a notice about contamination, testing can give you peace of mind and help you catch any issues early.


Here are a few reasons to schedule a PFAS test:


  • You use a private well for your drinking water.

  • Your property is near a known industrial site or airport.

  • You’ve noticed notices about water quality issues in your area.

  • You simply want to make sure your water is safe.

Our team can collect samples and handle the testing through certified laboratories, making the process simple for you.


How We Remove PFAS


If PFAS are found in your water, we have reliable solutions that can treat the problem. At Churyk Company, we install advanced filtration systems designed specifically to reduce PFAS and other contaminants in your drinking water.


We recommend systems such as Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) filtration. RO systems use a high-pressure membrane to filter out contaminants, while GAC traps PFAS and other organic compounds as water flows through. Both methods are proven effective when installed and maintained properly.


We’ll work with you to choose the best solution for your home or business, and we’ll handle everything from installation to maintenance to keep your water safe.


Schedule Your Water Test Today


If you’re concerned about PFAS in your water, don’t wait to find out. The sooner you test, the sooner you can address the problem and protect your health. At Churyk Company, we make it easy to test your water and install the right system if needed.


Call us today at (914) 764-4600 or (203) 322-6300, or contact us online to schedule your water test. Our team is here to help you understand what’s in your water and take care of the problem with trusted solutions.