PFAS: What Every Texas Water Operator Needs to Know

Known as "forever chemicals," PFAS have quickly become one of the most significant drinking water issues facing utilities across the United States. While many Texas water systems have not historically dealt with PFAS contamination, new federal regulations, increased monitoring requirements, and growing public awareness mean every operator should understand what PFAS are—and what they mean for their utility.

The good news?

Most operators don't need to become PFAS experts overnight. But every operator should know the basics and be prepared for what's ahead.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a large family of synthetic chemicals that have been used in manufacturing and consumer products since the 1940s.

Because these chemicals resist heat, water, grease, and stains, they've been used in products such as:

• Firefighting foams (AFFF)

• Non-stick cookware

• Waterproof clothing

• Food packaging

• Industrial coatings

• Electronics manufacturing

• Carpet and fabric treatments

The challenge is that PFAS do not easily break down in the environment.

Instead, they can remain in soil, groundwater, rivers, lakes, and even drinking water for decades—earning the nickname "forever chemicals."

Why Are Water Utilities Concerned?

Scientific research has shown that long-term exposure to certain PFAS compounds may increase the risk of adverse health effects.

Although research continues, studies have linked elevated exposure to certain PFAS with:

• Increased cholesterol

• Reduced immune response

• Developmental effects

• Liver impacts

• Certain cancers

Because of these concerns, the EPA has established enforceable drinking water standards for several PFAS compounds under the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. Utilities that exceed these Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) will need to take corrective actions, notify customers, and implement treatment or other compliance measures.

Current EPA Requirements

In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized the first nationwide drinking water standards for several PFAS compounds.

The rule includes requirements for:

• Routine monitoring

• Public notification

• Reporting

• Treatment when standards are exceeded

• Ongoing compliance monitoring

Utilities are currently working through phased implementation schedules that include monitoring and eventual compliance deadlines over the coming years. Operators should stay informed through their state primacy agency and utility management as implementation progresses.

For Texas systems, TCEQ will continue coordinating implementation of federal drinking water requirements within the state's regulatory framework.

How Are PFAS Removed from Drinking Water?

Unlike many contaminants, PFAS cannot simply be disinfected away.

Treatment generally focuses on removing PFAS from the water rather than destroying them.

Some of the most effective treatment technologies include:

Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)

One of the most common treatment methods.

Best suited for many longer-chain PFAS compounds.

Advantages:

• Proven technology

• Familiar to many utilities

• Relatively straightforward operation

Challenges:

• Media replacement

• Breakthrough monitoring

• Disposal considerations

Ion Exchange Resins

Specialized synthetic resins attract and remove PFAS molecules.

Advantages:

• High removal efficiency

• Smaller footprint

• Effective for multiple PFAS compounds

Challenges:

• Higher media costs

• Replacement requirements

• Waste management

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

Reverse osmosis provides extremely high removal efficiency.

Advantages:

• Excellent PFAS removal

• Removes many additional contaminants

Challenges:

• High capital cost

• Increased energy consumption

• Concentrate disposal

• Greater operational complexity

For many small and medium-sized utilities, RO may not be economically practical unless addressing multiple water quality concerns simultaneously.

Monitoring Is Becoming Increasingly Important

One of the operator's most important responsibilities is understanding monitoring requirements.

Utilities should work closely with certified laboratories and regulatory agencies to ensure:

• Proper sample collection

• Chain of custody documentation

• Laboratory certification

• Appropriate sampling frequency

• Accurate reporting

Because PFAS can be detected at extremely low concentrations (parts per trillion), sampling procedures require extra attention to avoid contamination from everyday products such as waterproof clothing, certain food wrappers, or even some personal care products.

Challenges for Small Texas Utilities

Large metropolitan utilities often have engineering departments, laboratory support, and dedicated compliance staff.

Small systems frequently do not.

Common challenges include:

• Limited budgets

• Aging infrastructure

• Limited technical staff

• Lack of treatment redundancy

• Capital improvement funding

Fortunately, federal and state funding programs continue to provide financial assistance for planning, monitoring, and infrastructure improvements. Utilities should stay informed about available grants and low-interest loan opportunities.

How Operators Can Prepare Today

While many utilities are still evaluating their PFAS situation, there are practical steps every operator can take.

• Learn the basics of PFAS chemistry.

• Understand your utility's source water.

• Know whether PFAS monitoring has been completed.

• Become familiar with treatment options.

• Participate in continuing education.

• Stay informed about EPA and TCEQ guidance.

• Work closely with your laboratory and engineering staff.

• Document sampling and operational practices carefully.

Preparation today can prevent costly surprises tomorrow.

The Bottom Line

PFAS represent one of the most significant regulatory and operational challenges the water industry has faced in decades. Yet this challenge also demonstrates the strength of the water profession.

Operators have successfully adapted to changes involving disinfection, lead and copper, surface water treatment, cybersecurity, and countless other regulatory developments. PFAS are simply the next chapter in protecting public health.

With the right training, reliable information, and a proactive approach, Texas water professionals will continue to meet that challenge.

At Lone Star WaterOps Training, we believe knowledge is one of the most valuable treatment tools available. As PFAS regulations continue to evolve, our goal is to provide practical, operator-focused education that helps utilities understand new requirements, evaluate treatment options, and prepare for the future with confidence.

References

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).PFAS Explained.

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS.

• EPA PFAS OUT Initiative (sampling and technical assistance resources).