Key Facts
- EPA maximum residual disinfectant level for chlorine: 4 mg/L
- The EPA regulates TTHMs and HAA5 as disinfection byproducts in drinking water
- Chlorine residual is a common cause of taste and odor complaints at the tap
- The EPA identifies activated carbon as a treatment technology for chlorine and its byproducts
- Chlorine levels at the tap vary with season, distance from the plant, and line flushing
The Solution
Whole-house and under-sink activated carbon filtration are commonly used to address chlorine taste and odor. ClearFlow tests your water and sizes a system for your home; reduction performance is defined by the manufacturer's published specifications.
Related Pages
Related guides
- Chloramine vs. Chlorine: Is Your Filter Actually Working?
- Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Systems in SC & NC
- Whole House Water Filtration in SC & NC
Frequently asked questions
Why does my tap water smell like chlorine?
Municipal utilities add chlorine to kill bacteria and viruses during water distribution. The smell is normal, but it indicates the presence of chlorine and its byproducts at your tap.
Is chlorine in tap water harmful?
Chlorine at regulated utility levels is considered safe by the EPA. The disinfection byproducts it can form — TTHMs and HAA5 — are federally regulated, and the EPA sets maximum contaminant levels for them due to health concerns associated with long-term exposure.
Does boiling remove chlorine from water?
Yes, boiling for several minutes will off-gas chlorine, but it concentrates other contaminants and doesn't remove chloramine. Carbon filtration is the practical solution.
What filter addresses chlorine?
Activated carbon and carbon block filtration are the technologies commonly used for chlorine taste and odor. ClearFlow installs whole-house and point-of-use carbon filtration systems; reduction performance is published by the manufacturer.
How do I test for chlorine in my water?
ClearFlow provides free in-home water tests including chlorine and disinfection byproduct panels across SC and NC. Call (843) 742-1196.