DISINFECTION BYPRODUCTS
Chlorine keeps germs out. It leaves something behind.
When chlorine meets natural organic matter in water, it can form byproducts. EPA limits two main groups.
THE LIMITS
Two groups.
| Byproduct | EPA limit |
|---|---|
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHM) | 80 parts per billion |
| Five haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 60 parts per billion |
Utilities measure these as running annual averages at sampling points.
IN YOUR REPORT
Where to look.
Your Consumer Confidence Report lists TTHM and HAA5 results.
AT HOME
Options.
Activated carbon filters certified under NSF/ANSI 53 can reduce some byproducts. Check the listing.
SOURCES
Where these facts come from.
QUESTIONS
Straight answers.
What are TTHMs?
Total trihalomethanes: byproducts formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter. EPA’s limit is 80 parts per billion.