| Is there iron in drinking water? |
| Yes, there is iron in drinking water but finding iron in drinking water is not considered a health hazard. In fact, iron is essential for good health because it transports oxygen in your blood. In the United States, most tap water probably supplies less than 5 percent of the dietary requirement for iron. Under the rules of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), iron is considered a secondary or "aesthetic" contaminant. The present recommended limit for iron in drinking water, 0.3 mg/I (ppm), is based on taste and appearance rather than on any detrimental health effect. Private drinking water supplies are not subject to the rules, but the guidelines can be used to evaluate water quality. For instance, when the level of iron in water exceeds the 0.3 mg/l limit, you may experience red, brown, or yellow staining of laundry, glassware, dishes and household fixtures such as bathtubs and sinks. The drinking water may also have a metallic taste and an offensive odor. Water system piping and fixtures can also become restricted or clogged when there are excessive amounts of iron in drinking water. Home Page | FAQs | Glossary | Contact Us |