Several consumers have called the Minnesota Water Quality Association regarding concerns about chemicals formerly manufactured by the 3M Company being found in groundwater in the south metro.

The chemicals, found mainly in the Lake Elmo and Oakdale areas, are perfluorochemicals, a family of compounds that 3M Co. began manufacturing in Minnesota in 1950. They have been used in household and industrial products such as water and stain repellents, fire retardants and pesticides, and were sold to DuPont for use in nonstick cookware. 3M phased out production of several of the chemicals by 2002.

No filters have yet been certified by NSF or WQA for these compounds, as the problem is simply too new. However, the Minnesota Dept. of Health feels that carbon filters (GAC) that address very light compounds (VOCs) will do well.

Reverse Osmosis drinking water systems remove compounds with additional techniques and offer added security, but it is suggested a homeowner supplement with a whole house carbon OR point-of-use carbon filter.

The Department of Health suggests GAC filters be changed at half the rated life of the filter when used for PFBA reduction.

BUT…

Most importantly is that the device is sized for the home or for the fixture by a licensed water conditioning contractor who is bonded to install filters so as not to cause other health risks. It is very important to be on a program to service the device regularly.

Items purchased at retail do not have to meet Minnesota plumbing code and may not be manufactured for water in this area.

The Department of Health advises that improper plumbing can cause many times more health risks than the water filter can remove.

For information on obtaining names of licensed contractors, click on "contact us" above or navigate to our member search area.

MWQA recommends licensed water conditioning contractors install all devices for PFBAs.