VOCs in Well Water: Industrial Chemicals & Your Health
2026-02-20 · 5 min read · Contaminant Guide
What Are VOCs?
Volatile organic compounds are carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate into air. Common VOCs in groundwater include: trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE, perc), benzene, toluene, methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), and vinyl chloride.
Sources
VOCs enter groundwater from: dry cleaning operations, gas stations and underground storage tanks, industrial manufacturing, landfills, military installations, and improper chemical disposal. Contamination can travel long distances in groundwater.
Health Effects
Depending on the specific VOC and exposure level: liver and kidney damage, nervous system effects, increased cancer risk (some VOCs are known carcinogens), reproductive effects. Exposure occurs through drinking, bathing (skin absorption), and inhaling vapors during showering.
Treatment
Granular activated carbon (GAC) is the standard treatment for most VOCs, removing 95%+ when properly sized. Whole-house treatment is recommended because VOC exposure occurs through bathing and inhalation, not just drinking. Air stripping is also effective for volatile compounds.
Our team analyzes data from EPA SDWIS & USGS to deliver accurate, up-to-date information. All data is verified and cross-referenced with official sources.