Gross Alpha in Drinking Water
Radionuclide · MCL: 15 pCi/L · 0 systems exceeding limit
Overview
Gross Alpha is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act with an MCL of 15 pCi/L. The EPA Safe Drinking Water program sets and enforces the maximum contaminant levels shown here.
Health Effects
Exposure to Gross Alpha above the MCL of 15 pCi/L may cause adverse health effects. Consult EPA fact sheets for detailed information.
Sources of Contamination
Gross Alpha can enter drinking water from natural deposits, industrial discharges, or other sources.
Treatment & Removal
Treatment methods for Gross Alpha include activated carbon filtration, reverse osmosis, and specialized media.
How to Remove Gross Alpha From Water
These filtration methods are effective for reducing Gross Alpha 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 Gross Alpha Detected
Aqua Pa Main System
Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Tucson City Of
Tucson, Arizona
Mesa City Of
Mesa, Arizona
Nj American Water - Western
Delran, New Jersey
Gilbert, Town Of
Gilbert, Arizona
Chandler City Of
Chandler, Arizona
Thornton City Of
Thornton, Colorado
West Jordan City Water System
West Jordan, Utah
Frequently Asked Questions
Gross Alpha has been detected in 0 water systems that exceed the EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 15 pCi/L, affecting approximately 0 people. Check your local water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report or search by ZIP code on this site.
Exposure to Gross Alpha above the MCL of 15 pCi/L may cause adverse health effects. Consult EPA fact sheets for detailed information.
Effective filtration methods for Gross Alpha include Reverse Osmosis (RO), Activated Carbon Block. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI standards for Gross Alpha removal. See the detailed comparison table above for effectiveness ratings and cost ranges.
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Gross Alpha is 15 pCi/L. The MCL Goal (MCLG), the level with no known health risk, is 0 pCi/L. Water systems must test regularly and notify customers if levels exceed the MCL.