Inorganic Low Risk
Zinc
Metallic taste, nausea at high levels
Sources: Natural deposits, Corrosion of galvanized pipes, Industrial discharge
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (5000 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
5000 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
0 nationwide
Affected Population
0 estimated
Avg Detected Level
0 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Zinc in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause metallic taste, nausea at high levels. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 5000 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Metallic taste, nausea at high levels
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Corrosion of galvanized pipes 3
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
0
Violations Found
0
Violation Rate
0%
Treatment Methods
Reverse osmosis
Ion exchange
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Zinc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zinc and why is it in drinking water?
Zinc is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Corrosion of galvanized pipes, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Zinc in drinking water?
Metallic taste, nausea at high levels
What is the EPA limit for Zinc?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Zinc is 5000 μg/L.
How can I remove Zinc from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Zinc include: Reverse osmosis, Ion exchange.
How do I test my water for Zinc?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Zinc levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.