Nickel
Naturally occurring metal that can be found in tap water primarily due to the leaching of nickel alloys in plumbing and fixtures. It is primarily used to make stainless steel and other alloys used for coins, jewelry, and appliances. Approximately 10-20% of the population is sensitive to nickel, which may cause a skin rash after exposure through contact or ingestion.
EPA MCLG Level
0.012 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for nickel in drinking water are based on adverse developmental effects. The most common adverse health effect of nickel in humans is an allergic reaction that causes a skin rash, either by skin contact or through oral ingestion. Approximately 10-20% of the population is sensitive to nickel.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Occurs naturally in rocks and soils, and subsequently dissolves into groundwater and surface water
- Primary source of nickel in drinking water is from the corrosion and leaching of nickel alloys used in plumbing and fixtures
- May also be released into the environment from power plants, trash incinerators, and industrial wastewater from processes involved in nickel refining, steel production, and other nickel alloy production
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Nickel:
EPA MCLG Level
The EPA MCLG 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
Nickel is classified as a Metals contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the developmental, immune-system.
Check Your Water
Find out if Nickel is in your tap water.
Search Your CityTest Your Water for This Contaminant
Public water reports may not test frequently enough or at your specific tap. Professional home testing provides current, location-specific results.
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