How to Identify and Address Lead Pipes in Your Home

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If you are concerned about lead pipes in your home or building, here are the steps you can take to address the issue:

1. Identify Lead Pipes

• Check the Pipe Material: Lead pipes are generally a dull gray color and are very soft. You can identify them by carefully scratching the surface with a key. On a lead pipe, the scratched area will appear shiny.
  

  

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• Use Lead Check Swabs: These swabs can detect lead on plumbing surfaces such as solder and pipes.

2. Test Your Water

• DIY Test Kits: Use a home testing kit like the Safe Home® DIY Lead in Drinking Water Test Kit. These kits can detect lead levels in tap water or well water.
  

  

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• Accredited Laboratories: For more accurate results, send water samples to an accredited laboratory.

3. Flush Your Water

• Before Use: If the water has been sitting in the pipes for six hours or longer, let it run for two minutes before drinking or cooking. This helps flush out any lead that may have leached into the water.
• Use Cold Water: Always use cold water for drinking and cooking, as hot water can leach more lead from pipes.

4. Install a Water Filter

• Certified Filters: Use a water filter that is tested and certified to remove lead. Some faucet and pitcher filters are effective for this purpose.

5. Consider Replacement

• Lead Service Line Replacement: If you have confirmed lead pipes, consider replacing them. Some states or utilities offer programs to pay for water testing and/or lead service line replacement for residents.
• Federal and Non-Federal Funding: There are federal and non-federal funding sources available to assist with lead service line replacement efforts.

6. Regular Maintenance

• Clean Faucet Aerators: Regularly clean the screen (aerator) on your faucet to remove any lead particles that may collect there.
• Monitor Construction: Be aware of any construction in your neighborhood that may disturb the water line, which could increase lead levels temporarily.

7. Educate and Test Family Members

• Children and Pregnant Women: If you have children or pregnant women in your household, it is crucial to have them tested for lead exposure with a blood lead test at your pediatrician's office or local county health department.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with lead pipes in your home or building.