Chloramine (residual disinfectant)
disinfectant
Added intentionally by water systems (chlorine + ammonia) to control microbes and limit disinfection byproducts.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
4 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
4 mg/L
MRDL (Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level) = 4.0 mg/L, enforced as a running annual average — a disinfectant limit, not an MCL. MRDLG = 4 mg/L. Chloramine is used as a longer-lasting alternative to free chlorine.
Health effects
At disinfection levels, chloramine can cause eye/nose irritation, stomach discomfort, and anemia. It is toxic to fish and must be removed for dialysis and aquariums.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
855
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 855 violations of Chloramine (residual disinfectant)'s rule nationally.
How to remove Chloramine (residual disinfectant)
Frequently asked questions
What is Chloramine (residual disinfectant)?
Chloramine (residual disinfectant) is a disinfectant regulated in US drinking water. Added intentionally by water systems (chlorine + ammonia) to control microbes and limit disinfection byproducts.
What is the legal limit for Chloramine (residual disinfectant) in drinking water?
MRDL (Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level) = 4.0 mg/L, enforced as a running annual average — a disinfectant limit, not an MCL. MRDLG = 4 mg/L. Chloramine is used as a longer-lasting alternative to free chlorine.
What health effects does Chloramine (residual disinfectant) have?
At disinfection levels, chloramine can cause eye/nose irritation, stomach discomfort, and anemia. It is toxic to fish and must be removed for dialysis and aquariums.
How many violations of Chloramine (residual disinfectant) limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 855 violations of Chloramine (residual disinfectant)'s rule nationally.
How do I remove Chloramine (residual disinfectant) from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Chloramine (residual disinfectant) include: activated carbon (NSF/ANSI 42). 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