Perchlorate in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It
Perchlorate is an inorganic contaminant that can sometimes be found in drinking water. Under the Environmental Protection Agency, it is regulated with a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 56 μg/L. Monitoring for this chemical is important to ensure municipal drinking water remains safe.
Health Effects
Ingesting water containing perchlorate can lead to health concerns, specifically thyroid gland dysfunction. Disruption of thyroid function can impact overall health and regulatory processes in the body. Keeping exposure below the regulated limit helps prevent these thyroid-related issues.
How Perchlorate Gets Into Tap Water
Perchlorate enters drinking water sources through both industrial and agricultural activities. Major sources of this contaminant include rocket fuel manufacturing, fireworks, and fertilizers. These materials can leach into surface or groundwater supplies, leading to tap water contamination.
How to Remove Perchlorate From Your Water
Several water treatment methods can effectively reduce perchlorate levels in drinking water. These include filtration systems using ion exchange and reverse osmosis technologies. Additionally, biological treatment systems can be employed to treat contaminated water supplies.
Should You Test Your Water?
You can check your local water utility's Consumer Confidence Report or use the WaterQ search tool to see if perchlorate is present in your public water supply. Private well owners may also consider testing their water through a certified laboratory if they suspect contamination. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the Perchlorate data page for reported levels in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Perchlorate dangerous in drinking water?
Perchlorate in drinking water can be a concern because it is associated with thyroid gland dysfunction. It is regulated with a Maximum Contaminant Level of 56 μg/L to protect public health from these potential effects. Maintaining exposure below this level helps mitigate risks to thyroid health.
How does Perchlorate get into tap water?
Perchlorate typically enters water supplies from rocket fuel manufacturing, fireworks, and fertilizers. These industrial and agricultural sources can release the compound into groundwater or surface water.
How can I remove Perchlorate from my water?
You can remove perchlorate from your water using treatment methods like ion exchange or reverse osmosis. Biological treatment is another effective option for addressing this contaminant.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.