Inorganic Low Risk
Perchlorate
Thyroid gland dysfunction
Sources: Rocket fuel manufacturing, Fireworks, Fertilizers
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (56 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
56 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
4 nationwide
Affected Population
1.4M estimated
Avg Detected Level
28.295 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Perchlorate in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause thyroid gland dysfunction. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 56 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Thyroid gland dysfunction
Common Sources
1
Rocket fuel manufacturing 2
Fireworks 3
Fertilizers National Overview
Total Tests
66
Violations Found
4
Violation Rate
6.1%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
89
Atlanta Department of Watershed Management
B GA1210001 Atlanta, GA
498,715 served
81
Fort Wayne City Utilities
B IN5202001 Fort Wayne, IN
270,402 served
49
City of Plano Water
D TX0430070 Plano, TX
287,677 served
1 violation
77
St. Paul Regional Water Services
B MN6210001 St. Paul, MN
311,527 served
Treatment Methods
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Biological treatment
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Perchlorate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perchlorate and why is it in drinking water?
Perchlorate is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Rocket fuel manufacturing, Fireworks, Fertilizers.
What are the health effects of Perchlorate in drinking water?
Thyroid gland dysfunction
What is the EPA limit for Perchlorate?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Perchlorate is 56 μg/L.
How can I remove Perchlorate from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Perchlorate include: Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis, Biological treatment.
How do I test my water for Perchlorate?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Perchlorate levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.