Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
Trichloroacetic acid is one of the five haloacetic acids in HAA5 (group limit 60 ppb). Its EPA health goal (MCLG) is 0.02 mg/L.
EPA MCLG Level
0.02 mg/L
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Associated with an increased cancer risk in long-term studies; the EPA regulates five haloacetic acids together as HAA5. The risk is chronic and lifetime rather than acute.
Common Sources
- Byproduct of disinfecting drinking water with chlorine
- Formed when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter such as decaying leaves, runoff, and algae
Is your Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) result safe? Get a free reading
The EPA MCLG for Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is 0.02 mg/L. Upload your water test (PDF or a photo) and we'll email a plain-English reading of where your result lands — and every other number — free. Educational only, no medical claims.
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Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA):
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Where is Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Found?
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) has been detected above EPA health guidelines in 978 cities serving 94.7M people across the US.
and 973 more cities
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
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
Related Disinfection Byproducts Contaminants
Check Your Water
Find out if Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is in your tap water.
Search cities for Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) dataTest 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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Tests for disinfection byproducts formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water treatment.
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