cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It
cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene is an organic chemical compound that can sometimes be found in drinking water supplies. It is categorized as an organic contaminant by regulatory agencies. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for this chemical at 70 μg/L.
Health Effects
Exposure to cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene in drinking water above the regulatory limit can lead to adverse health effects. Specifically, long-term exposure to this contaminant is associated with liver and kidney damage. It is important to monitor water quality to prevent these potential health complications.
How cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene Gets Into Tap Water
The presence of cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene in water sources is typically linked to industrial activities. Specifically, it primarily enters drinking water systems through industrial discharge. Proper management and monitoring of industrial wastewater help prevent this chemical from entering public water supplies.
How to Remove cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene From Your Water
Water systems can utilize specific treatment technologies to remove cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene from drinking water. The primary treatment methods certified or commonly used for this contaminant include packed tower aeration and granular activated carbon filtration systems. These methods are highly effective at reducing the chemical's concentrations to safe levels.
Should You Test Your Water?
To check for the presence of cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene in your drinking water, you can review your local water utility's annual consumer confidence report or utilize the search tools on WaterQ. If you use a private well, periodic laboratory testing is recommended to ensure your water meets safety standards. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene data page for reported levels in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene dangerous in drinking water?
Yes, cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene can be harmful if consumed in quantities exceeding the regulatory limit. Over time, exposure to this organic contaminant can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Maintaining levels below the EPA limit is essential to protect long-term health.
How does cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene get into tap water?
This contaminant typically enters the water supply through industrial discharge. Industrial facilities releasing waste can contaminate local surface or groundwater sources.
How can I remove cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene from my water?
You can remove cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene using treatment methods such as packed tower aeration or granular activated carbon. Many home water filtration systems utilize activated carbon technology to treat organic chemicals.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.