Barium in Drinking Water
Inorganic Chemical · MCL: 2000 ppb · 0 systems exceeding limit
Overview
Barium is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act with an MCL of 2000 ppb. The EPA Safe Drinking Water program sets and enforces the maximum contaminant levels shown here.
Health Effects
Exposure to Barium above the MCL of 2000 ppb may cause adverse health effects. Consult EPA fact sheets for detailed information.
Sources of Contamination
Barium can enter drinking water from natural deposits, industrial discharges, or other sources.
Treatment & Removal
Treatment methods for Barium include activated carbon filtration, reverse osmosis, and specialized media.
How to Remove Barium From Water
These filtration methods are effective for reducing Barium in drinking water:
| Filter Method | Effectiveness | Cost Range | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reverse Osmosis (RO) | High (varies) | $200-500 (under-sink) | NSF/ANSI 58 |
| Activated Carbon Block | Moderate (varies) | $30-100 (pitcher/faucet) | NSF/ANSI 53 |
Reverse Osmosis (RO), details
Reverse osmosis is effective against most dissolved contaminants. Check specific certifications for this contaminant.
Activated Carbon Block, details
Effectiveness varies by contaminant. Look for filters specifically certified for this substance.
Water Systems with Barium Detected
Aqua Pa Main System
Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Tucson City Of
Tucson, Arizona
Aquarion-Eastern Fairfield County
Shelton, Connecticut
Glen Burnie-Broadneck
Millersville, Maryland
Gilbert, Town Of
Gilbert, Arizona
Provo City
Provo, Utah
Frequently Asked Questions
Barium has been detected in 0 water systems that exceed the EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 2000 ppb, affecting approximately 0 people. Check your local water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report or search by ZIP code on this site.
Exposure to Barium above the MCL of 2000 ppb may cause adverse health effects. Consult EPA fact sheets for detailed information.
Effective filtration methods for Barium include Reverse Osmosis (RO), Activated Carbon Block. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI standards for Barium removal. See the detailed comparison table above for effectiveness ratings and cost ranges.
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Barium is 2000 ppb. The MCL Goal (MCLG), the level with no known health risk, is 2000 ppb. Water systems must test regularly and notify customers if levels exceed the MCL.