Copper in Drinking Water
EPA Limit (MCL)
1300 ug/L
EPA Goal (MCLG)
1300 ug/L
Status
Regulated
Health Effects
Short-term exposure to high levels of copper can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure may cause liver and kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially sensitive.
How Copper Gets Into Water
Enters water primarily through corrosion of copper plumbing and pipes. Can also come from mining operations and natural mineral deposits.
How to Remove Copper
Reverse osmosis, distillation, and ion exchange filters can all remove copper. Running water for 15-30 seconds before use reduces copper from pipe corrosion.
Recommended: NSF/ANSI 53 Certified Filter
Activated carbon filters certified under NSF/ANSI 53 are effective at reducing lead and other heavy metals.
Up to 99% lead removal
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