Mercury in Drinking Water
EPA Limit (MCL)
2 ug/L
EPA Goal (MCLG)
2 ug/L
Status
Regulated
Health Effects
Mercury exposure can damage the kidneys, nervous system, and brain. It is particularly harmful to developing fetuses and young children, causing developmental delays and cognitive impairment.
How Mercury Gets Into Water
Enters water from natural deposits, coal-burning power plants, mining operations, and improper disposal of products containing mercury (thermometers, fluorescent lights).
How to Remove Mercury
Granular activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and distillation are all effective at removing mercury from drinking water.
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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