If you live in Central Illinois, you may have recently heard about new Illinois groundwater quality standards for six PFAS. These synthetic “forever chemicals” have been linked to potential health risks. Now, Illinois drinking water providers must reduce levels of PFAS by 2029. However, many homeowners don’t want to wait that long to take action.
Arnold & Sons Plumbing believes clean water is essential to a healthy home. In this blog, we’ll explain what PFAS are and share practical plumbing tips to help you reduce your family’s exposure starting now.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are man-made chemicals in products like non-stick pans, water-resistant clothing, firefighting foam, and food packaging. They don’t break down easily. Once they enter the environment, they can linger in soil, groundwater, and potentially in your drinking water.
In April 2025, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued notices to several water systems, including Peoria’s, after detecting PFAS levels above the new groundwater standard of 4 parts per trillion.
Long-term exposure to PFAS may be linked to:
- Increased cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Hormonal and thyroid disruption
- Immune system effects
- Certain cancers
PFAS have no taste, color, or odor. The only way to detect them is through testing. Fortunately, there are steps you can take today to minimize your exposure to PFAS.
6 Plumbing Tips to Reduce PFAS in Water
1. Know What’s in Your Water
The first step to cleaner water is understanding your current water quality. While PFAS require specialized lab testing, Arnold & Sons offers in-home water evaluations that test for common issues like hardness, iron, and chlorine. If you’ve had a PFAS lab test done, we can help you understand your results and recommend practical next steps.
2. Install a Whole-House Carbon Filtration System
Activated carbon filtration is one of the EPA’s top recommended treatments for PFAS. Installing and maintaining an activated carbon filtration system will purify your water before it reaches your taps. It will not only remove PFAS, but also chlorine, chloramines, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
We often recommend systems like the Novo 485HTO for homeowners in Peoria and the surrounding areas. This system uses high-grade catalytic carbon made from coconut shells to trap contaminants before they reach your fixtures.
3. Upgrade to a Combination Filter and Softener System
Installing a combination filter and softener system will let you enjoy soft water that is free of PFAS. Systems like the Novo 485HTO soften your water and reduce harmful substances like PFAS, chloramines, and other chemicals.
4. Don’t Rely on Basic Pitcher Filters
While convenient, most countertop filters or pitcher systems are not designed to remove PFAS. If you want meaningful protection from PFAS, a whole-house system or certified point-of-use filter will work far better. We can help you choose the right type of water filter based on your home’s needs.
5. Maintain Your Water Filtration System
Even the best filters need routine upkeep. Without regular cartridge replacements and performance checks, your system won’t effectively reduce PFAS. Scheduling regular water treatment system maintenance will:
- Ensure peak performance
- Extend your system’s lifespan
- Provide you and your family with continuous protection from PFAS
6. Ask About Under-the-Sink Reverse Osmosis (RO) Options
Not ready for a whole-home water treatment solution? You can install a RO system under your kitchen sink to remove PFAS and other contaminants from your drinking and cooking water. RO systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane that filters out even the tiniest particles, effectively removing PFAS from your water.
Contact Arnold & Sons to Learn More About Reducing PFAS in Water
Arnold & Sons has proudly served Peoria and Central Illinois since 1988. Whether you’re concerned about PFAS or simply want better water for your family, our team is here to help. We will provide you with honest guidance, professional water filter installations, and ongoing support.
Call us at 309.691.8291 or schedule your consultation online. Our water treatment systems are designed to provide you and your family with cleaner, safer water today.
