Water Quality in Rochester, MN
Rochester's water has 4 contaminants above health guidelines. We recommend using a certified water filter.
Utility
ROCHESTER WATER SYSTEM
People Served
121,395
MCL Violations
0
Last Updated
Dec 22, 2024
Quick Summary
Contaminants Detected
⚠️ Contaminants Above Health Guidelines (4)
Radium 228
What is Radium 228?
Radium-228 is a radioactive isotope of radium that occurs naturally in uranium and thorium ores. It is part of the decay chain of uranium-232 and has a half-life of 5.75 years. Radium-228 can be found in groundwater and can contaminate drinking water supplies.
Health Effects
Exposure to radium-228 can lead to an increased risk of cancer, particularly bone cancer, due to its radioactive properties. Long-term exposure can also affect the kidneys and other organs.
Affected Organs
Common Sources
Radium 226
What is Radium 226?
Radium-226 is a radioactive isotope of radium, which is a naturally occurring element found in uranium ores. It is a decay product of uranium-238 and is known for its radioactive properties, emitting alpha particles and gamma radiation.
Health Effects
Exposure to Radium-226 can lead to serious health issues, including an increased risk of bone cancer and other malignancies. It can accumulate in bones and tissues, leading to long-term health effects due to its radioactivity.
Affected Organs
Common Sources
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
What is Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)?
Member of haloacetic acids (HAAs) that form as byproducts when chlorine reacts with organic matter
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for TCA in drinking water have been developed based on liver toxicity and carcinogenicity observed in animal studies. EPA has classified TCA as a possible human carcinogen. Developmental toxicity has also been associated with exposure to TCA based on evidence from animal studies.
Affected Organs
Common Sources
Copper
What is Copper?
Naturally occurring metal that is widely used in plumbing, faucets, and fixtures
Health Effects
Health protective levels of copper in drinking water have been established based on potential adverse effects to the gastrointestinal system, kidneys, and liver, especially for infants and children. Acute exposure to high copper levels uncommonly found in drinking water can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
Affected Organs
Common Sources
Understanding the Data
This data comes from your local water utility testing. The bar charts compare detected levels against health guidelines (HGL). Contaminants above the health guideline are shown by default and may require filtration. All other tested contaminants are within safe levels and can be viewed by expanding the section above.
Recommended Water Filters for Rochester
Based on Rochester's water quality data, these NSF-certified filters are recommended to remove contaminants above health guidelines.

GHP Group Inc.
VRO-3Q VRO-3Q
NSF Certified:
Daily Production
20.3 gpd
Removes 15 contaminants:
Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium (Total), Chromium (VI) +10 more

GHP Group Inc.
PUN3RO PUN3RO
NSF Certified:
Daily Production
23.3 gpd
Removes 15 contaminants:
Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium (Total), Chromium (VI) +10 more
![CMTRO-75[G] CMTRO-75[G]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fm.media-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F61r8aJRwE8L._AC_SX522_.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Solventum Purification Inc.
CMTRO-75[G] CMTRO-75[G]
NSF Certified:
Daily Production
23.59 gpd
Removes 15 contaminants:
Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium (Total), Chromium (VI) +10 more

Senwater Systems, LLC.
TRO508 TRO508
NSF Certified:
Daily Production
11 gpd
Removes 17 contaminants:
Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium (Total), Chromium (VI) +12 more
Frequently Asked Questions
Rochester's water has 4 contaminants above health guidelines. We strongly recommend using a certified water filter to reduce exposure to these contaminants. Check our filter recommendations below for NSF-certified options that can remove the specific contaminants found in Rochester's water.