Understanding PFOAs and Your Plumbing System: What You Need to Know
PFOAs, or perfluorooctanoic acid, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in various industrial and consumer products for decades. These chemicals have recently come under scrutiny due to their potential health risks and environmental impact. As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand how PFOAs may affect your plumbing system and what steps you can take to ensure the safety of your drinking water.
At MASI Plumbing, Heating & A/C, we have been serving the Southern New Hampshire community since 1964, providing top-notch plumbing repair, furnace repair, furnace replacement, furnace installation, and heating repair services to Milford, NH, Nashua, NH, Amherst, NH, Hudson, NH, and Merrimack, NH. Our team of expert technicians is well-versed in the latest industry developments, including the concerns surrounding PFOAs in plumbing systems.
How PFOAs Can Enter Your Plumbing System
PFOAs can enter your plumbing system through various sources, including:
- Contaminated Water Supply: If your local water source is contaminated with PFOAs, the chemicals can enter your home’s plumbing system through the main water line.
- Leaching from Plumbing Materials: Some older plumbing materials, such as certain types of plastic pipes and fittings, may contain PFOAs that can leach into your drinking water over time.
- Breakdown of Non-Stick Coatings: PFOAs have been used in the production of non-stick coatings for cookware and other household items. As these coatings break down, they can release PFOAs into your home’s water supply.
According to recent studies, PFOAs have been detected in the drinking water supplies of millions of Americans across the country. In response to these findings, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a health advisory level for PFOAs in drinking water at 70 parts per trillion (ppt).
Potential Health Risks Associated with PFOAs
Exposure to PFOAs has been linked to several potential health risks, including:
- Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as kidney and testicular cancer
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Reduced fertility and birth weight
- Weakened immune system response
While the long-term effects of PFOA exposure are still being studied, it’s crucial for homeowners to take proactive steps to minimize their risk of exposure.
Solutions for Reducing PFOA Exposure in Your Plumbing System
At MASI Plumbing, Heating & A/C, we offer a range of solutions to help homeowners reduce their exposure to PFOAs in their plumbing systems. Our expert technicians can:
1. Test Your Water Supply: We can perform comprehensive water testing to determine the presence and concentration of PFOAs in your home’s drinking water.
2. Replace Outdated Plumbing Components: If your home has older plumbing components that may contain PFOAs, our team can replace them with modern, PFOA-free alternatives to minimize the risk of leaching.
3. Install Water Filtration Systems: We can install advanced water filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters, which are designed to remove PFOAs and other contaminants from your drinking water.
4. Provide Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable staff can provide personalized advice on the best course of action for your specific situation, taking into account factors such as your home’s age, plumbing system, and local water quality.
In addition to our plumbing repair services, MASI Plumbing, Heating & A/C also offers a wide range of HVAC services, including furnace repair, furnace replacement, furnace installation, and heating repair in Milford, NH, Nashua, NH, Amherst, NH, Hudson, NH, and Merrimack, NH. Our team is committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring the comfort and safety of your home.
As the concern surrounding PFOAs in drinking water continues to grow, it’s essential for homeowners to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect their families. At MASI Plumbing, Heating & A/C, we are here to help you navigate this complex issue and provide the expert guidance and services you need to ensure the safety of your home’s plumbing system. Contact us today for a free estimate and to learn more about how we can help you address PFOAs in your drinking water.
Serving Southern New Hampshire
- Wilton
- Milford
- Amherst
- Mont Vernon
- Brookline
- Hollis
- Nashua
- Hudson
- Litchfield
- Bedford
- Manchester
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- Londonderry
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