Autotrol VOCs & Industrial Chemicals Filter

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How a Gasoline Release Differs From a Dry-Cleaning Release in What It Leaves in Groundwater

Gasoline releases usually introduce specific VOCs linked to fuel hydrocarbons

Gasoline spills or leaks often result in volatile organic compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. These tend to be different from solvent compounds associated with dry-cleaning sites.

Dry-cleaning solvent compounds are distinct VOCs not typically associated with gasoline

Common solvents used in dry cleaning release compounds like perchloroethylene or trichloroethylene, which differ chemically and may appear separately in water testing than those from gasoline leaks.

What a Laboratory's Method Detection Limit Means When a Compound Is 'Not Detected'

'Not detected' means the compound's concentration was below the method detection limit

The EPA data for Iredell Water Corporation’s surface water supply shows some detections of 1,1-dichloroethane but many VOCs were reported as not detected above their respective detection limits. This does not indicate absence, only that measurements are below thresholds (e.g., 0.03 to 5.0 micrograms per liter).

Detection limits vary by compound and affect the interpretation of results

Each VOC has its own reporting level, such as 0.03 µg/L for 1,1-dichloroethane and 5.0 µg/L for MTBE. A non-detection means the concentration is below these levels, clarifying that very low concentrations might still be present.

The Order in Which to Rule Things Out, From Cheapest Check to Laboratory Test

Begin with a review of local public water system records

The Iredell Water Corporation serves Statesville with surface water, and their public records summarize VOC presence from 2013 to 2015 without any federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) exceedances in VOCs. Checking these records can provide initial context.

Next, consider household water condition observations

Signs such as unusual tastes, odors, or staining may indicate VOC presence but are not conclusive. Because taste and odor thresholds vary, these alone are not definitive for VOC problems.

Then, order laboratory testing of your own household water

To know the exact VOC concentrations in your specific water supply, obtain a certified laboratory test focusing on volatile organic compounds. This is essential because area data does not represent individual wells or connections.

What Happens When This Problem Is Left Untreated for Years, Stated Without Exaggeration

Prolonged exposure to certain VOCs may pose long-term health considerations

Though Iredell Water Corporation’s system showed no federal MCL exceedances, some VOCs detected like 1,1-dichloroethane are industrial solvents with potential risks if found in elevated concentrations over time. Prolonged consumption of VOCs above health benchmarks often results in rinsing or filtration considerations but must rely on actual test results.

Untreated VOC presence can also affect water taste and plumbing components

Even when under health-based limits, some VOCs can alter taste or cause minor wear in household plumbing materials. Addressing VOCs can improve water aesthetics and system longevity.

How Many Samples and Wells Stand Behind the Figures, and What a Small Sample Means

Sampling covers the entire public water system, not individual homes

The EPA unregulated contaminant monitoring rule (UCMR3) data for Iredell Water Corporation include 64 samples for several VOCs, representing the system serving over 27,000 people and more than 10,000 connections. These results reflect the large surface water source as treated for distribution.

Small numbers of detections require careful interpretation

Three detections of 1,1-dichloroethane above 0.03 µg/L out of 64 samples reflect low frequency and low concentrations. However, individual household situations may differ, especially if private wells or separate sources are used.

The Household or Facility Symptoms That Do and Do Not Point to This Problem

Do consider unusual chemical tastes or smells as possible VOC indicators

Unusual tastes or odors are often the first signs that volatile organic compounds may be present. However, these symptoms are non-specific and may arise from other sources.

Do not assume symptoms without testing conclusively indicate VOC issues

Many factors unrelated to VOCs can cause changes in water taste or odor, including plumbing materials or disinfectant byproducts. Absence of symptoms does not guarantee absence of VOCs.

Absence of staining or visible changes does not rule out VOC presence

VOC compounds generally do not cause staining or particulate matter; thus, visible clarity and color in water are not definitive indicators.

Closing Advice: The Single Test to Clarify Your Household's VOC Situation

Order a comprehensive volatile organic compounds water test from a state-certified laboratory targeting the range of solvent compounds and industrial VOCs relevant to your area. This test will provide specific results for your household supply.

If VOCs are confirmed at concerning levels, the Autotrol VOCs & Industrial Chemicals Filter ships ready to configure and is documented to reduce a range of volatile organic compounds effectively for residential use.

Where this information comes from

Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2015-10-29. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.

On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for Iredell Water Corporation (NC0149025), NC: 436 results across 7 listed contaminants, 3 detections above the reporting level; no federal MCL for these UCMR-listed VOCs