Organic Low Risk
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
Liver problems, increased cancer risk
Sources: Dry cleaning, Metal degreasing, Industrial discharge
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (5 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
5 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
4 nationwide
Affected Population
2.9M estimated
Avg Detected Level
2.9017 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause liver problems, increased cancer risk. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 5 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Liver problems, increased cancer risk
Common Sources
1
Dry cleaning 2
Metal degreasing 3
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
44
Violations Found
4
Violation Rate
9.1%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
89
City of Columbus Division of Water
B OH2510001 Columbus, OH
905,748 served
65
Broward County Water
C FL0060462 Fort Lauderdale, FL
120,000 served
89
Honolulu Board of Water Supply
B HI0110001 Honolulu, HI
350,964 served
89
Philadelphia Water Department
B PA1510001 Philadelphia, PA
1,500,000 served
Treatment Methods
Granular activated carbon
Packed tower aeration
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Tetrachloroethylene (PCE).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and why is it in drinking water?
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is a organic contaminant. Common sources include: Dry cleaning, Metal degreasing, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in drinking water?
Liver problems, increased cancer risk
What is the EPA limit for Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is 5 μg/L.
How can I remove Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) include: Granular activated carbon, Packed tower aeration.
How do I test my water for Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.