THM's in Your Water

A Total Water Cleaner whole home water filter will reduce THM's in tap water by up to 95%, giving you clean chemical free water from every tap in your home!

Read below for more information about THM's. Click here to see Winnipeg's latest THM results - Winnipeg THM Report

What are THMs?

THMs are trihalomethanes, chemical compounds that can be formed when water is disinfected with chlorine. THMs occur when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water, and for this reason are more common in surface water supplies throughout Canada.

Is there a drinking water guideline set for THMs in drinking water?

The acceptable level, or guideline, for THMs in drinking water in Canada is set by Health Canada in consultation with the provinces and territories. The Canadian drinking water guideline for total THMs is 100 micrograms of THMs per litre of water ( µg/L). The guideline is based on a locational running annual average of a minimum of four quarterly samples. An updated guideline for total THMs was released by Health Canada in May 2006. For more information, go to: Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality - Supporting Documents.

Why was the guideline updated in 2006?

New studies have been published since the last Canadian guideline on THMs was established. In response to these new findings, Health Canada established a National Chlorination Disinfection By-Products Task Group. It assessed the health risks from THMs and developed risk management options. In 2003, its recommendations were incorporated into the decision process. In the fall of 2005, public consultation began. The guideline for total THMs was approved in May 2006. Health Canada will continue to monitor new research in this area and recommend any changes to the guidelines when necessary.

What are the potential problems of having high THMs in drinking water?

There is concern among experts in Canada that THMs may pose a risk in the development of cancer. And though there is presently insufficient evidence to establish a causal relationship, some studies report an association between THMs and adverse birth outcomes

How are Canadians exposed to THMs in drinking water?

Canadians can be exposed to THMs when drinking tap water containing the chemical compounds. Showering, bathing and other water use activities can also contribute to an individual's total exposure. For example, THMs can evaporate from the tap and be inhaled during showering, or they can be absorbed through the skin during bathing. These routes of exposure have been considered in the guideline setting process. Water that meets the total THMs guideline is considered safe for all domestic uses, including drinking, bathing, showering and food preparation.

Should pregnant women take special precautions?

While THMs may be a contributing factor to birth outcomes, there are several other risk factors involved. However, Nova Scotia's Medical Officer of Health still recommends that pregnant women be aware of the THM levels in their water, and take steps to reduce their THM intake.

Full article available here - THM Article