1,2-Dichloroethane in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It

1,2-Dichloroethane is a synthetic organic chemical that is regulated as a contaminant in drinking water. It belongs to the organic category of water contaminants and has an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 5 μg/L. Exposure to levels above this standard can lead to potential health concerns.

Health Effects

Ingesting water contaminated with 1,2-Dichloroethane presents a potential health hazard over time. Specifically, exposure to this organic compound is associated with an increased risk of cancer. Ensuring water levels remain below regulatory limits helps mitigate these long-term health risks.

How 1,2-Dichloroethane Gets Into Tap Water

This contaminant typically enters drinking water supplies through industrial discharge. Specifically, releases from chemical factories can introduce this chemical into local water sources. Monitoring nearby water bodies is common practice for areas surrounding these industrial facilities.

How to Remove 1,2-Dichloroethane From Your Water

Effective treatment methods for removing this contaminant from drinking water include granular activated carbon and packed tower aeration. Treatment systems using granular activated carbon are commonly used to filter out such organic compounds. These methods help ensure municipal or private water supplies meet safe standards.

Should You Test Your Water?

To determine if this contaminant is present, you can review your local water utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report or check the WaterQ database. Private well owners should consider periodic laboratory testing for organic compounds if they live near chemical factories or industrial areas. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the 1,2-Dichloroethane data page for reported levels in your area.

Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.