Why Lead in Water Is Dangerous
Lead is a toxic heavy metal that accumulates in the body over time. Unlike many contaminants, lead has no beneficial use in the human body—it's purely harmful.
Health Effects in Children
- Damage to the brain and nervous system
- Developmental delays and learning difficulties
- Lower IQ and attention problems
- Behavioral issues
- Hearing problems
- Slowed growth
Children under 6 are most vulnerable because their bodies absorb lead more easily and their brains are still developing.
Health Effects in Adults
- Cardiovascular effects and increased blood pressure
- Kidney damage
- Reproductive problems
- Decreased kidney function
- Neurological effects
Pregnant women face additional risks: lead can cross the placenta and affect fetal development.
How Lead Gets in Drinking Water
Lead rarely occurs naturally in water sources. It typically enters drinking water through:
Lead Service Lines
Pipes connecting the water main to your home. Homes built before 1986 (and some after) may have lead service lines. An estimated 6-10 million lead service lines remain in use across the U.S.
Lead Solder
Before 1986, lead solder was commonly used to join copper pipes. Even "lead-free" solder used after that date can contain up to 0.2% lead.
Brass Fixtures and Fittings
Older faucets, valves, and fittings often contain lead. "Lead-free" brass (post-2014) can still contain up to 0.25% lead.
Galvanized Steel Pipes
May have accumulated lead deposits over time from lead service lines or lead-containing solder.
Who Is Most at Risk?
You may be at higher risk for lead in water if:
- Your home was built before 1986
- You live in an older city with aging infrastructure
- Your water is corrosive (low pH, low mineral content)
- You have a lead service line (check with your utility)
- You've seen work done on water mains in your area recently
- Your water sits in pipes for long periods (vacation, overnight)
How to Test for Lead
You cannot see, taste, or smell lead in water. Testing is the only way to know.
Testing Options
- Contact your water utility: Many offer free or low-cost testing
- State-certified lab: Most accurate results ($20-50). Find labs at EPA.gov
- Home test kits: Quick screening but less precise. Good for initial assessment
How to Collect Samples
For accurate results:
- Test "first draw" water that has sat in pipes overnight (at least 6 hours)
- Also test after flushing (running water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes)
- Use the cold water tap you drink from most often
- Follow the lab's specific instructions carefully
Understanding Your Results
| Lead Level | Meaning | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0 ppb | No detectable lead | No action needed |
| 1-14 ppb | Below EPA action level | Consider filtration, especially with children present |
| 15+ ppb | Exceeds EPA action level | Use filtration or alternative water; investigate source |
| 50+ ppb | High contamination | Don't use for drinking/cooking; seek professional help |
Note: The EPA's 15 ppb action level isn't a safety standard—it triggers utility action. Health agencies increasingly recommend 0-5 ppb or lower, especially for households with children.
How to Remove Lead from Water
Several filtration methods effectively remove lead:
| Filter Type | Lead Removal | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Reverse Osmosis | 95-99% | Highest removal, addresses multiple contaminants |
| NSF 53 Carbon Block | 90-99% | Under-sink or faucet filters (must be NSF 53 certified) |
| Certified Pitcher Filters | 90-99% | Budget option; must be NSF 53 certified for lead |
| Distillation | 98%+ | Effective but slow and energy-intensive |
Recommended Filters for Lead
- Under-sink RO systems – Best overall protection
- NSF 53-certified under-sink carbon filters – Good balance of cost and performance
- NSF 53-certified faucet filters – Convenient, effective
- Clearly Filtered or Brita Longlast pitchers – Budget NSF 53-certified options
Immediate Steps If You Have Lead
If You Suspect or Confirm Lead:
- Flush your pipes – Run cold water for 1-5 minutes before drinking, especially in the morning or after long periods of non-use
- Use cold water only – Hot water dissolves more lead from pipes
- Install a certified filter – At your primary drinking water tap
- Get tested – Blood lead tests for children and pregnant women
- Identify the source – Work with your utility or a plumber to find where lead is entering
- Consider pipe replacement – Long-term solution for lead service lines or internal plumbing
Long-Term Solutions
Lead Service Line Replacement
If your home has a lead service line, full replacement is the permanent solution. Many utilities offer assistance programs, and federal funding for lead pipe replacement has increased significantly. Contact your water utility about programs in your area.
Internal Plumbing Updates
Replacing old fixtures, faucets, and lead-soldered joints can reduce lead exposure from your home's plumbing. Prioritize fixtures used for drinking and cooking water.
Protect Your Family from Lead
Install a certified lead-removing filter today.
Best RO Systems → Under-Sink Filters →Frequently Asked Questions
Can boiling water remove lead?
No. Boiling actually concentrates lead as water evaporates. You must use proper filtration (RO, NSF 53-certified carbon) to remove lead from drinking water.
Is it safe to shower in water with lead?
Generally yes. Lead is not well-absorbed through skin. The primary risk is from ingesting lead through drinking and cooking. However, avoid getting water in your mouth while showering if lead levels are high.
Do refrigerator filters remove lead?
Most don't. Check for NSF 53 certification specifically for lead. Many refrigerator filters only have NSF 42 (taste/odor) certification, which doesn't address lead.
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
Check where the pipe enters your home (usually in the basement). Lead pipes are dull gray, soft enough to scratch with a key, and a magnet won't stick to them. You can also contact your water utility—many are now required to maintain service line inventories.