Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
volatile organic compound
Discharge from factories and dry cleaners.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
0.005 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 mg/L
MCL 0.005 mg/L (5 ppb). MCLG = 0.
Health effects
Long-term exposure is associated with liver problems and an increased risk of cancer.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
49,005
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 49,005 violations of Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)'s rule nationally.
How to remove Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
Frequently asked questions
What is Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)?
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is a volatile organic compound regulated in US drinking water. Discharge from factories and dry cleaners.
What is the legal limit for Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in drinking water?
MCL 0.005 mg/L (5 ppb). MCLG = 0.
What health effects does Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) have?
Long-term exposure is associated with liver problems and an increased risk of cancer.
How many violations of Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 49,005 violations of Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)'s rule nationally.
How do I remove Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) include: activated carbon (NSF/ANSI 53), reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58). 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