Metals
Germanium in U.S. tap water
5 public water systems across 3 U.S. states report Germanium in their annual Consumer Confidence Report. None currently sit at or above the federal limit.
What it is
A trace metalloid found in some source water.
Why it's regulated
Not federally regulated; monitored occasionally as a trace element.
Frequently asked
+What is Germanium?
A trace metalloid found in some source water. Not federally regulated; monitored occasionally as a trace element.
+Does Germanium have a federal limit in drinking water?
Germanium does not have an enforceable federal MCL. Utilities still report any measured levels in their annual Consumer Confidence Report.
+How many U.S. water systems have Germanium over the federal limit?
Zero of the 5 public water systems in The Water Map dataset currently report Germanium at or above its federal limit.
+How can I check if Germanium is in my city's tap water?
Search your city on The Water Map (https://www.thewatermap.com/) or browse the list on this page. Every U.S. public water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report that lists every contaminant it measured, including Germanium.