Mercury in Drinking Water

Reference information plus historical EPA compliance records associated with mercury.

EPA Limit (MCL)

2 ppb

EPA Goal (MCLG)

2 ppb

Category

Inorganic

Regulatory values are a concise reference, not legal or medical advice. Confirm the current standard and rule-specific details on EPA.gov.

Health Effects

Kidney damage

Common Sources

Erosion of natural deposits, discharge from refineries and factories

Treatment Considerations for Mercury

Commonly cited treatment approaches include: Reverse osmosis, distillation. Choose treatment only after a certified water test identifies the substance and concentration; verify NSF/ANSI certification and consult a qualified local professional when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mercury and why can it appear in drinking-water records?

Mercury can be associated with drinking water through: Erosion of natural deposits, discharge from refineries and factories.

What reference value does this page show?

The summarized EPA Maximum Contaminant Level is 2 ppb. Some substances use action levels or rule-specific thresholds instead, so verify the current EPA standard.

Does a historical violation record mean it is in my tap today?

No. A compliance record may be historical or resolved. Use the latest Consumer Confidence Report or a certified test for current local conditions.