Water Filtration - Contaminants in Water

MTBE in Drinking Water

What is MTBE?
MTBE (methyl-t-butyl ether) is a member of a group of chemicals commonly known as fuel oxygenates. Oxygenates are added to fuel to increase its oxygen content. MTBE is used in gasoline throughout the United States to reduce carbon monoxide and ozone levels caused by auto emissions. MTBE replaces the use of lead as an octane enhancer since 1979.

How widespread and at what levels is MTBE contamination in water supplies?
When MTBE is detected, the levels are typically below 20 ppb which is lower than EPA’s Drinking Water Advisory.

How do I know if I have MTBE in my water?
It is possible your water would taste and/or smell like turpentine if MTBE is present at levels around or above 20-40 ppb (some people may detect it at even lower levels).

Is MTBE harmful to humans?
EPA reviewed available health effects information on MTBE in its 1997 Drinking Water Advisory guidance and decided that there was insufficient information available to allow EPA to establish quantitative estimates for health risks and as such would not set health advisory limits. The drinking water advisory document indicates that there is little likelihood that MTBE in drinking water will cause adverse health effects at concentrations between 20 and 40 ppb or below.

How can I remove MTBE from my water?
Public water systems can use existing technologies such as air stripping, granular activated carbon (GAC), and advanced oxidation to remove MTBE contamination. Some home treatment units can also remove MTBE in tap water. The EPA does not certify the effectiveness of home treatment units since it only regulates public water supplies.

*The above information is sourced from the EPA / GOV  website.