Polychlorinated Biphenyls

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of organic chemicals which can be odorless or mildly aromatic solids or oily liquids. They were formerly used in the USA as hydraulic fluids, plasticizers, adhesives, fire retardants, way extenders, de-dusting agents, pesticide extenders, inks, lubricants, cutting oils, in heat transfer systems, carbon-less reproducing paper.

Production of PCBs has decreased drastically: from over 86 million lbs. in 1970 to 35 million lbs in 1977. Since EPA banned most uses of PCBs in 1979, current releases are due mainly to the cycling of this persistent contaminant from soil to air to soil again. PCBs are also currently released from landfills, incineration of municipal refuse and sewage sludge, and improper (or illegal) disposal of PCB materials, such as waste transformer fluid, to open areas.

From 1987 to 1993, according to EPA’s Toxic Chemical Release Inventory, PCB releases to land and water totaled over 74,000 lbs. The bulks of these releases occurred in 1990 and were primarily from non-ferrous wire drawing and insulating industries. The largest releases occurred in California.

What Do The Results Mean? Are They Regulated?

The MCLG for PCBs has been set at zero because EPA believes this level of protection would not cause any of the potential health problems described below.

Based on this MCLG, EPA has set an enforceable standard called a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL). MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as possible, considering the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable treatment technologies.

The MCL has been set at 0.5 parts per billion (ppb) because EPA believes, given present technology and resources, this is the lowest level to which water systems can reasonably be required to remove this contaminant should it occur in drinking water.

How Do You Test For PCB’s?

There are many methods available for testing PCB’s in water and, most of these methods will utilize some type of Gas Chromatography. Due to the health risks from this contamination, testing should be performed by an experienced laboratory.

Water Treatment Options

The EPA states the best available technology for removing PCB’s from water is using activated granular carbon.

Contact Sanatoga Water Conditioning To Learn More Or To Schedule A Consultation.

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Our dedication to our customers is continually rewarded with referrals and testimonials about our water quality solutions!

"Never disappoints! I've had two water tests conducted on my home. During the most recent John shared his knowledge and expertise on not only the Well tank pump that was in serious need of replacement but also options for my water softener. I never felt pressured to commit to something I didn't need. They made sure I had all the information and let me make a decision based on what made sense for me. Great experience from first call to final product!"

- Frederick S.

"We are new to the area and new to well water. We have used Sanatoga twice now - for routine maintenance and a water softener install. Juan is always on time and very attentive. We feel fortunate we have someone who cares about our house as if it were his own and a company we can count on in the years to come.
Thank you for excellent service!"

- John D.

"We have used Sanatoga Water Conditioning as a residential client as well as for our business customers for several years now. I could not be more happy with the customer service and professionalism that they provide. I always get a cheerful and helpful person on the other end of the line when I call the office, and the technicians who installed our water treatment system were clean, professional and answered all of my questions. I can definitely recommend Sanatoga, 5 Stars."

- Lori N.

      
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   C J 
 August 27, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It's always nice to see JD.  He's always so helpful and cheerful! Thanks, JD!
  
 
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   Bernard Jurgelewicz 
 August 24, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent instalation service and customer service
  
 
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   James Boyle 
 August 18, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very knowledgeable and understanding.
  
 
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   Jim Fiorini 
 August 11, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Juan was right on time and called 20 minutes before arriving. He did a great job and was very considerate. Highly recommended
  
 
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   Dominick Staino 
 August 10, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This company always does a great job with installation and great customer service.  I highly recommend them for all your water needs.
  
 
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   Amirali Shojaeian 
 August 8, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gary and George were absolute professionals and excellent to work with. Highly recommend Sanatoga.
  
 
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   Sue Gengaro 
 August 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Was friendly, respectful, seemed to know his business, I said seemed since I don't know how the business works.
  
 
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   Dan Carlson 
 August 4, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sanatoga Water has always been the best when it comes to service and addressing all of our water conditioning needs for softeners, neutralizers, and reverse osmosis filtration. They’re always on time, professional, no-pressure, and they take the time to answer any and all of my questions (in person and on the phone). This is the second home I’ve used them and will continue to rely on them! I can’t recommend them enough.
  
 
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   Kelly Jones 
 August 4, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Juan arrived on time, quickly changed the filters, checked the water filtration and ensured everything was in working order. Great service.
  
 
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   K M 
 July 31, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sanatoga is always so easy to work with.  Everyone is so kind, professional and efficient!