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Disinfection byproducts · in your tap water

Dibromochloromethane (DBCM)

Another brominated TTHM

FamilyDisinfection byproducts
Where it comes fromBromide-rich source water + chlorine
Best fixActivated carbon

What it is

Forms in the same chlorine + bromide reactions as BDCM. EPA lists it as a possible human carcinogen.

Comes with BDCM. Same filtration removes both.

What you might notice & the health concern

Where it comes from

What actually removes it

Not sure which system you need? Our reverse-osmosis and whole-home pages compare the options, or book a free Home Water Checkup and we'll test your actual tap.

The research

Every source below was checked to make sure the link works and backs the claim it's next to. These are the primary regulators and peer-reviewed studies — not our opinion.

1
Dibromochloromethane EWG Tap Water Database

EWG health guideline of 0.1 ppb; cancer + fetal harm.

2
Toxicological Profile for Bromoform and Dibromochloromethane ATSDR / CDC

EPA Group C 'possible human carcinogen'; IARC Group 3; bromide-driven formation.

3
National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (complete table) U.S. EPA

Lists the TTHM MCL of 0.080 mg/L (80 ppb) and HAA5 MCL of 0.060 mg/L (60 ppb).

Related on your report

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This page is general water-quality education, not medical advice. Health classifications and limits are attributed to the EPA, EWG, IARC, ATSDR/CDC, WHO and the cited studies. Contaminant levels vary by water system and home — the only way to know what's in your water is to test it. Prepared by SwiftPro Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.