What Are PFAS and Why Should Myrtle Beach Residents Care?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of over 14,000 synthetic chemicals that have been manufactured since the 1940s. They're called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment — or in your body. Once they enter your water supply, they stay there.
For Myrtle Beach homeowners, this isn't abstract. The former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, which operated from 1956 to 1993, used aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) extensively for firefighting training. AFFF is one of the most concentrated sources of PFAS contamination known. That contamination has leached into the local groundwater and soil over decades.
The EPA's 2024 ruling set the first-ever enforceable limits on PFAS in drinking water: 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS individually. But here's the critical detail most people miss: water utilities have until 2029 to comply with these limits. That means your tap water could legally contain PFAS above the safe limit for the next three years.
Where PFAS Come From in the Myrtle Beach Area
Former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base
PFAS contamination from decades of firefighting foam (AFFF) use. The base operated from 1956-1993 and is now a Superfund investigation site.
Industrial discharge
Manufacturing facilities along the Waccamaw River and Intracoastal Waterway have contributed PFAS to local water sources.
Municipal water treatment limitations
Standard municipal treatment does not remove PFAS. Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority treats for bacteria and sediment, but PFAS pass through conventional filtration.
Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
The science on PFAS health effects is not speculative — it's based on decades of epidemiological research. The EPA, CDC, and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) have all issued warnings.
Cancer
Linked to kidney, testicular, liver, and pancreatic cancers. EPA classified PFOA as a likely human carcinogen.
Thyroid & Hormones
Disrupts thyroid function and hormone regulation. Linked to thyroid disease and fertility problems.
Childhood Development
Children are most vulnerable. Linked to low birth weight, delayed development, and weakened vaccine response.
Immune System
Weakens the immune system, reducing ability to fight infections. Effects compound over years of exposure.
Key fact
Unlike most contaminants, PFAS bioaccumulate — they build up in your blood and organs over time. Every glass of contaminated water adds to the total. The half-life of PFAS in the human body is 4-8 years.
How to Protect Your Family from PFAS
Standard water filters — Brita pitchers, refrigerator filters, basic faucet attachments — are not effective against PFAS. Removing forever chemicals requires specialized filtration technology certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58.
Whole-House Activated Carbon
Treats every faucet, shower, and appliance in your home. Granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorbs PFAS compounds as water flows through the filter media. Best for families who want protection at every water point.
- Whole-home protection
- NSF/ANSI 53 certified
- Low maintenance
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
Point-of-use systems installed under your kitchen sink. Forces water through a semi-permeable membrane that removes PFAS and virtually all other contaminants. Ideal for families who want the highest purity for drinking and cooking water.
- 99.82% PFAS removal
- NSF/ANSI 58 certified
- 5-stage filtration
Certified PFAS Removal for Myrtle Beach Homes
Free Water Testing
Our certified technicians test your water for PFAS, hardness, iron, bacteria, pH, and more. Same-day results, no obligation.
Liberty Protect System
Removes up to 99.82% of PFAS compounds including PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and 20+ other forever chemicals. NSF certified.
Expert Installation
Licensed technicians design and install the right system for your home. Same-week installation available. 25-year tank warranty.
Why Myrtle Beach Homeowners Choose HydroSmart
- Free in-home water testing
- NSF/ANSI 53 & 58 certified systems
- Up to 99.82% PFAS removal
- 25-year warranty on tanks
- Home Depot Authorized dealer
- Same-week installation available
- Licensed & insured technicians
- Financing options available
What You Can Do Right Now
You don't have to wait until 2029 for your water utility to act. Here's what you can do today:
Get your water tested
A professional water test is the only way to know your actual PFAS exposure. HydroSmart provides free in-home testing across the Myrtle Beach area — no obligation.
Stop using basic filters for PFAS
Brita pitchers and standard faucet filters do not remove PFAS. Only NSF-certified activated carbon or reverse osmosis systems are effective.
Choose the right system for your home
Once you know your water quality, a certified technician can recommend the right solution for your home, family size, and budget.
Check if you have well water
If your home uses a private well, you have no municipal testing or treatment. Professional testing is especially critical for well water homes.