Lead in Drinking Water
How lead enters tap water, who is most at risk, and how to protect your household.
Lead in tap water comes from your plumbing, not the source
Unlike most contaminants, lead typically enters water after it leaves the treatment plant. The sources are lead service lines (the pipe connecting the water main to your home), lead solder in copper pipes (common before 1986), and brass fixtures and faucets. The water itself isn't the problem. it's what it flows through.
There is no safe level of lead exposure, particularly for children. Even low levels can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems. The EPA action level of 15 ppb is not a health-based standard. it's a trigger for utilities to take corrective action.
Who is most at risk
Homes built before 1986 (when lead solder was banned) are most likely to have lead in their plumbing. Cities with aging infrastructure. Chicago, Pittsburgh, Newark, Baltimore. have the highest concentrations of lead service lines. If your home was built before 1986, testing your water for lead is strongly recommended.
What removes lead
NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certified filters are tested for lead reduction. Both carbon block and reverse osmosis systems can reduce lead effectively. Point-of-use filters (at the kitchen tap) are the most practical solution for most homes. Running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking can also reduce lead levels, as lead concentrations are highest in water that has been sitting in pipes.