Contaminant guide
Radium-226/-228
Radium is a naturally occurring radioactive metal that can dissolve into groundwater in some geologic formations.
Health context
Long-term ingestion increases cancer risk, particularly bone cancer.
EPA standard notes
EPA MCL for combined radium-226 and radium-228 is 5 pCi/L.
Standards and rules change—confirm on epa.gov/sdwa.
What you can do
- Check CCR radionuclide results.
- Ion exchange or reverse osmosis can reduce radium when properly designed.
FAQ
Is a filter required?
Not automatically. Many systems meet standards without point-of-use filters. Filters can be useful for taste, specific contaminants, or home plumbing issues—match certifications to the problem.
Where should I verify numbers?
Your utility’s Consumer Confidence Report, public notices, TCEQ resources, and EPA ECHO/SDWIS records.