Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
Group of contaminants that are primarily formed as byproducts when chlorine reacts with organic matter
EPA MCLG Level
N/A ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for total haloacetic acids have been developed based on elevated risk of bladder cancer observed in epidemiological studies. Individual HAAs have also been associated with developmental, male reproductive, and liver toxicity, as well as genotoxicity based on animal studies.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Chlorine disinfection interacting with naturally occurring organic matter in distribution systems
- More commonly found in surface water sources, which have higher organic matter content
- Can also enter drinking water through chemical or pharmaceutical manufacturing and, at much lower levels, via natural processes
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5):
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
Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the developmental, reproductive-m, and other systems.
Check Your Water
Find out if Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) 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.
SimpleLab
Standard Home Water Test
$232
Comprehensive water analysis testing over 200 contaminants including bacteria, heavy metals, and chemical compounds.
SimpleLab
Advanced Home Water Test
$369
Most comprehensive home water test including all standard tests plus additional parameters for ultimate peace of mind.
Tap Score
Advanced Microplastics Test
$636
Cutting-edge testing for microplastics particles in drinking water using advanced laboratory techniques.