Cu
Copper
heavy metalSDWA code: CU90
EPA Limit (MCL)
1.3 mg/L
Health Goal (MCLG)
1.3 mg/L
Unit of Measure
mg/L
How concentrations are reported
Regulated under the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). Action Level triggers corrective action requirements.
Health Effects
Short-term: gastrointestinal distress. Long-term: liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are more sensitive.
How It Gets Into Water
Corrosion of household plumbing; erosion of natural deposits; leaching from wood preservatives
How to Reduce Exposure
- 1Run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using
- 2NSF/ANSI 53 certified filters can reduce copper
- 3Avoid letting water sit in copper pipes overnight before drinking
- 4Check if your home has copper plumbing with lead-tin solder (pre-1986 homes)
Always look for NSF/ANSI certified filtration products. Certification means the filter has been independently tested to remove the stated contaminants.
Official EPA Guidance
For authoritative information on Copperin drinking water, visit the EPA's official resource page.
View EPA Guidance ↗