Tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC) in Drinking Water

🩨 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.

📜 Regulation History

The EPA set the PCE MCL at 0.005 mg/L (5 ppb) in 1987 under the Phase I VOC rule. PCE is one of the most frequently detected VOCs in groundwater nationally. The WHO guideline is 0.04 mg/L, significantly less strict than the US standard.

🔬 How To Test Your Water

Certified lab tests for PCE cost $50-$100 using EPA Method 524.2 (purge-and-trap GC/MS). Home test kits are not available for PCE. If you live near a dry cleaner or former industrial site, professional lab testing is recommended.

💧 Which Filters Remove Tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC)?

Granular activated carbon (GAC) is highly effective at adsorbing PCE (NSF/ANSI 53 certified for VOC reduction). Reverse osmosis also removes PCE. Air stripping/aeration is the standard municipal treatment. Choose a filter with NSF/ANSI 53 certification for VOC removal.

🔗 Related Contaminants