Understanding 1,2,3-TCP in York County Water: Kennebunk, Kennebunkport & Wells Area
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Whole House 1,2,3-TCP Reduction Water Filter System - Trichloropropane Removal
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Whole House 1,2,3-TCP Reduction Water Filter System - Trichloropropane Removal
Many think agricultural use directly defines 1,2,3-TCP detections in the local water
The agricultural history of York County, including Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Wells, involved widespread soil fumigant applications in mid-20th century decades ago. 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) is a chlorinated solvent impurity historically linked to such fumigants. Government monitoring of the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport & Wells public water system (serving over 35,000 people) found 1,2,3-TCP below detection levels in all tested samples during 2013-2015. This means the chlorinated solvent was not measured above 0.03 micrograms per liter (µg/L) or 0.03 parts per billion (ppb). Although past land use can indicate potential sources, the official record shows no current detection in this surface water supply system.
Some assume soil fumigant impurities only affect shallow groundwater soon after use
The presence of TCP in water is tied to legacy fumigant impurities used in the 1950s through the 1980s. These chemicals can leach into soil and migrate downward over many years. The Kennebunk, Kennebunkport & Wells water system uses surface water sources, which are less directly affected by deep groundwater contamination. Moreover, the federal Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR3) data for this system shows no detection of 1,2,3-TCP above the reporting level during comprehensive sampling. This illustrates that the chlorinated solvent’s slow migration and long persistence do not necessarily lead to measurable presence in all water supplies in the region.
It is often believed that taste concerns determine how to treat 1,2,3-TCP effectively
Granular activated carbon (GAC) is a documented technology to address TCP and other chlorinated solvents. Unlike substances that impact water taste and require shorter contact times, 1,2,3-trichloropropane demands longer GAC bed depth and contact time for effective interaction. This is because TCP molecules resist typical air stripping methods and adsorb more slowly than many taste-related compounds. Appropriate GAC systems, such as the C-Series System equipped with the C-Series 1,2,3-TCP Filter, ship ready to configure for household water treatment focused on this solvent.
The aesthetic secondary standards do not apply as health limits for 1,2,3-TCP
Aesthetic thresholds like taste, color, or odor limits are not health-based standards. For 1,2,3-trichloropropane, there are no federal Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) established. The EPA's monitoring under UCMR3 is designed to gather occurrence data rather than enforce limits. Because 1,2,3-TCP is different from contaminants governed by aesthetic secondary standards, its detection—or lack thereof—must be interpreted solely within the monitoring framework, not as an indication of health-based compliance or violation.
What a certified laboratory test for 1,2,3-TCP reports and how to interpret it
To understand your household water’s 1,2,3-trichloropropane level, a certified laboratory test measuring micrograms per liter (µg/L) is required. Test results show concentrations relative to reporting levels, such as the 0.03 µg/L used in federal monitoring. A result below this reporting level means the lab did not detect the constituent at measurable concentrations. Such information is critical for determining if additional treatment like the C-Series 1,2,3-TCP Filter might be needed for a home water supply.
What you should NOT conclude from the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport & Wells area data
The absence of detected 1,2,3-TCP in government monitoring for this public water system does not guarantee the same for any individual household’s water. Private wells or local plumbing can vary, and only direct testing of your water sample can confirm your specific condition. Additionally, detected concentrations below the reporting threshold should not be mistaken for health-based violations or unsafe levels. Interpreting data correctly helps avoid unnecessary concern and directs focus toward appropriate testing and potential treatment options if needed.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2014-11-25. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for Kennebunk, Kennebunkport & Wells WD (ME0090760), ME: 8 results across 1 listed contaminants, 0 detections above the reporting level; nothing detected above the method reporting level