Dichloromethane
Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) is a human-made volatile organic compound and a halomethane, or a derivative of methane with one or more hydrogens replaced by halogen atoms (i.e. F, Cl, Br, or I). It is widely used in paint, aerosols, insecticides, cleaning fluids, and as an industrial solvent in metal and drug manufacturing. Dichloromethane is readily volatile, thus all routes of exposure (ingestion, inhalation and dermal) are relevant if one is exposed via drinking water. Health effects related to elevated dichloromethane exposure include liver problems, genotoxicity, and cancer. EPA classifies dichloromethane as a likely human carcinogen.
Health Guideline Level (HGL)
0 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
EPA health protective levels for dichloromethane have been established based on carcinogenicity observed in animal studies. Dichloromethane has also been associated with liver toxicity based on evidence from animal studies. Dichloromethane has been shown to produce DNA changes (genotoxicity) in laboratory studies.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Does not occur naturally, so its presence in the environment and water sources is the direct result of human activity
- Discharge from chemical and drug manufacturing is the primary source of dichloromethane in water
- Higher levels of dichloromethane may occur in drinking water near hazardous waste sites
- Levels of dichloromethane are usually higher in groundwater because it is highly volatile and evaporates from surface waters
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Dichloromethane:
Health Guideline Level
The HGL represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.
Contaminant Type
Dichloromethane is classified as a VOCs contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the carcinogens, liver.
Check Your Water
Find out if Dichloromethane is in your tap water.
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