1,4-Dichlorobenzene in Key West Florida Water

Unhealthy Levels of 1,4-Dichlorobenzene in the Water Supply of Key West Florida Homes

1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a synthetic chemical that can sometimes be detected in drinking water and becomes a concern when concentrations rise. Also called p-Dichlorobenzene, many homeowners recognize it by a sharp, mothball-like smell more than the formal name. Because it can affect water odor and perceived quality, residents in Key West often choose to treat water at the point it enters the house so all uses—showers, laundry, and dishwashing—are covered and exposure is reduced.

This compound has historically been used in products like deodorants and moth repellents and can reach water supplies through industrial handling, improper disposal, or contaminated runoff. It can persist in water because it does not readily break down under normal conditions, and even clear water may give off an unpleasant scent—especially during hot showers or when several taps run at once. In Key West and throughout Monroe County, testing is the only way to know whether 1,4-Dichlorobenzene is present and to choose the right treatment for your home.