Inorganic Low Risk
Copper
Short-term: gastrointestinal distress; long-term: liver or kidney damage
Sources: Corrosion of plumbing, Copper pipes, Mining
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (1.3 mg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
1.3 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 mg/L
Violating Systems
0 nationwide
Affected Population
0 estimated
Avg Detected Level
0 mg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Copper in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause short-term: gastrointestinal distress; long-term: liver or kidney damage. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 1.3 mg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Short-term: gastrointestinal distress; long-term: liver or kidney damage
Common Sources
1
Corrosion of plumbing 2
Copper pipes 3
Mining National Overview
Total Tests
0
Violations Found
0
Violation Rate
0%
Treatment Methods
Corrosion control
Water softening
Reverse osmosis
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Copper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Copper and why is it in drinking water?
Copper is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Corrosion of plumbing, Copper pipes, Mining.
What are the health effects of Copper in drinking water?
Short-term: gastrointestinal distress; long-term: liver or kidney damage
What is the EPA limit for Copper?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Copper is 1.3 mg/L.
How can I remove Copper from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Copper include: Corrosion control, Water softening, Reverse osmosis.
How do I test my water for Copper?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Copper levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.