Health Concern
Chlorine in Drinking Water
Chlorine is a chemical disinfectant added to municipal water supplies to kill harmful bacteria and viruses.
4.0 mg/L
EPA Action Level
Cl₂
Chemical Formula
10-20%
FL Homes Affected
Health Effects
Short-term Effects
- Skin and eye irritation
- Respiratory irritation
- Dry skin and hair
- Unpleasant taste and odor
Long-term Effects
- Increased cancer risk (trihalomethanes)
- Respiratory problems
- Skin conditions
- Digestive issues
Common Sources
1
Municipal water treatment facilities
2
Swimming pool chemicals
3
Industrial processes
4
Household cleaning products
5
Wastewater treatment plants
Detection & Testing
Test strips for free chlorine
Digital chlorine meters
Professional water testing
Removal & Treatment Methods
Activated Carbon
Effectiveness
95%
Highly effective at removing chlorine and improving taste
Regulations & Standards
EPA Regulations
EPA requires chlorine levels below 4.0 mg/L in drinking water
Action Level:
4.0 mg/L
Prevalence in FL:
10-20% of homes