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The EPA list of regulated contaminants has not been substantially updated since 1996. Meanwhile, American industry has introduced thousands of new chemicals into the water cycle. Here are five contaminants that are in your water right now — and what the government is not telling you about the risks.
1. PFAS (Forever Chemicals)
Found in the drinking water of an estimated 110+ million Americans. Linked to cancer, thyroid disease, immune suppression, and developmental issues. Standard municipal treatment does NOT remove PFAS. For removal methods that actually work, see our PFAS removal guide.
2. Lead
Not from the treatment plant — from aging pipes between the plant and your tap. The EPA action level of 15 ppb was set in 1991. Modern research shows no safe level of lead exposure. Flint, Michigan was just the most visible failure. See our complete lead exposure guide.
3. Chromium-6 (Hexavalent Chromium)
The “Erin Brockovich chemical” is still not specifically regulated by the EPA. Total chromium is capped at 100 ppb, but that includes the harmless chromium-3 form. Hexavalent chromium levels above 0.02 ppb are considered carcinogenic. It is present in water systems in all 50 states.
4. Pharmaceutical Residues
Antibiotics, antidepressants, hormones from birth control pills, and chemotherapy drugs have been detected in municipal water across the country. The EPA does not regulate any pharmaceutical compounds in drinking water. Reverse osmosis is the most effective home removal method.
5. Chlorine Byproducts (THMs)
When chlorine reacts with organic matter, it forms trihalomethanes — carcinogens linked to bladder cancer with long-term exposure. The EPA limit is 80 ppb, but many water systems exceed this during summer months. A quality activated carbon filter removes most THMs.
The solution? Test your own water and filter it yourself. You cannot rely on the government to protect you from contaminants they have not even bothered to regulate. A comprehensive home water test costs less than $30 and tells you exactly what you are dealing with.
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Related guides: Do Water Filters Remove PFAS? | Lead in Drinking Water