Tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC) in Drinking Water
EPA limits, health effects, and what to do if your water is affected.
🩨 Health Effects
PCE is a probable human carcinogen associated with increased risk of bladder cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Long-term exposure also causes liver and kidney damage and neurological effects.
📍 Sources in Water
The primary source is dry cleaning operations. PCE has been widely used in dry cleaning since the 1950s. It leaches readily from contaminated soil into groundwater. Also used as a metal degreaser in industrial settings.
✅ What To Do
Activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis effectively remove PCE. People living near dry cleaning facilities or industrial areas should be especially aware. Check your utility's Consumer Confidence Report and contact them if concerned.
Check your tap water for Tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC)
Search your ZIP code to see if your water system has had Tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC) violations, plus lead testing results and an overall safety grade.
Search your ZIP code →Data from the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS). MCLs reflect minimum federal standards; some contaminants may pose health risks below these thresholds.