Lead
Health & what it is
There is no known safe level of lead exposure. In children, lead is linked to lowered IQ, attention and behavioral problems, and slowed growth; in adults it is associated with cardiovascular and kidney effects.
Lead is unusual among contaminants because it typically isn’t in the water leaving the treatment plant — it dissolves into the water from lead service lines, solder, and brass fixtures inside older buildings. That’s why a system-level score can’t fully capture your home’s risk.
EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule sets an action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb); above that, utilities must take corrective steps. The only way to know your tap’s level is to test it.
Where it comes from
Corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass plumbing inside older homes and buildings.
How to reduce Lead at home
Look for a filter certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 — Carbon block or reverse osmosis.
- ✓Reverse osmosis
- ✓Filters certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead reduction
- ✓Replacing lead service lines and old fixtures
Frequently asked questions
What is Lead? +
Rarely in the source water — it usually enters at the tap from old service lines and plumbing. Corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass plumbing inside older homes and buildings.
What is the EPA limit for Lead in drinking water? +
The EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). To remove it, look for a filter certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or 58.
What are the health effects of Lead? +
There is no known safe level of lead exposure. In children, lead is linked to lowered IQ, attention and behavioral problems, and slowed growth; in adults it is associated with cardiovascular and kidney effects. Lead is unusual among contaminants because it typically isn’t in the water leaving the treatment plant — it dissolves into the water from lead service lines, solder, and brass fixtures inside older buildings. That’s why a system-level score can’t fully capture your home’s risk. EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule sets an action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb); above that, utilities must take corrective steps. The only way to know your tap’s level is to test it.
How do you remove Lead from drinking water? +
Reverse osmosis Filters certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead reduction Replacing lead service lines and old fixtures
Is Lead in your water?
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