Iron Levels in Drinking Water

Iron is a naturally occurring element in drinking water that, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, does not pose a health risk. Iron is found throughout the environment and is not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Sources

• Iron enters drinking water from the soil into natural reservoirs and aquifers. Concentrations can reach 10 mg/L; however, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health, concentrations above 0.3 mg/L can cause the water to appear rusty.

Forms

• Iron can be present in either the oxidized form, known as ferric iron, or the reduced form, ferrous iron. Ferrous iron will dissolve in water and it will have no smell or color. Ferric iron gives the water a rusty color and tastes unpleasant.

Regulation

• Iron levels in drinking water are not regulated by the U.S. EPA, however the organization suggests that levels remain below 0.3 mg/L to avoid unpleasant tastes, odors or colors in drinking water.

Health Risks

• According to the EPA, iron in drinking water is a nuisance and poses no immediate health risks.

Iron in Water

• Iron can corrode and stain household fixtures and iron that does not dissolve in water can build up in pipes restricting the flow of water.