Arsenic
metal
Erosion of natural deposits; runoff from orchards; glass and electronics production wastes. Most common in groundwater in parts of the Southwest, Upper Midwest, and New England.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
0.01 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 mg/L
MCL 0.010 mg/L (10 ppb), effective Jan 23 2006. MCLG = 0.
Health effects
Long-term exposure is linked to skin damage, circulatory-system problems, and an increased risk of several cancers (skin, bladder, lung).
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
79,748
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 79,748 violations of Arsenic's rule nationally.
How to remove Arsenic
anion exchange
NSF/ANSI 53
Frequently asked questions
What is Arsenic?
Arsenic is a metal regulated in US drinking water. Erosion of natural deposits; runoff from orchards; glass and electronics production wastes. Most common in groundwater in parts of the Southwest, Upper Midwest, and New England.
What is the legal limit for Arsenic in drinking water?
MCL 0.010 mg/L (10 ppb), effective Jan 23 2006. MCLG = 0.
What health effects does Arsenic have?
Long-term exposure is linked to skin damage, circulatory-system problems, and an increased risk of several cancers (skin, bladder, lung).
How many violations of Arsenic limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 79,748 violations of Arsenic's rule nationally.
How do I remove Arsenic from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Arsenic include: reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58), anion exchange (NSF/ANSI 53). Look for a filter independently certified against the specific NSF/ANSI standard for this contaminant — general "reduces contaminants" marketing claims are not the same as a contaminant-specific certification.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations · Data as of 2026-07-16