Homeowners should be aware of potential contaminants like lead, which can leach from aging plumbing systems over time. Lead exposure can cause serious health issues, especially in young children, making regular testing a crucial preventative measure. This blog provides information on testing water supplies for lead, its sources, when to conduct testing, and how to interpret results to maintain low levels.
Understanding the Risks of Lead in Water
Lead exposure can negatively impact health, especially in children. Deteriorating plumbing contains this toxic metal. Regular testing provides awareness. Lead can cause health issues like reduced IQ and behavioral problems in children. Regular Lead Water Testing identifies lead piping/solder leaching into the supply.
Common Sources of Lead in Plumbing
Lead pipes delivering water, solder connecting pipes, and brass fixtures contain lead alloy potentially leaching into the supply. Homes built pre-1980 face a higher risk. Lead service lines connecting main water lines to homes and lead solder joining copper pipes were common prior to 1980. Brass faucets coated in lead-based finishes also leach lead into water over time.
Who Should Consider Testing Water?
Homes with plumbing components containing lead alloy, nearby buildings re-piped, pregnant women, and families with children under 6 require testing. Consult certified professionals. Homes built before 1986, undergoing plumbing repairs, with pregnant women/young children present. Testing ensures safety levels are maintained through aging components potentially degrading.
When to Test Water for Lead
Initially test when moving into older homes or if pregnant/with young kids. Repeatedly check every few years. Directly after water outages or any plumbing changes. Initially tested when moving into older homes. Repeated testing every 3-5 years checks for changes caused by time/use. Risk increases directly after longer water outages or recent construction disturbing pipes.
Regular Cleaning of Home is very Important.
Regular chimney cleaning is crucial for safety, indoor air quality, mold prevention, dust control, preparation for use, chimney inspection, and insurance coverage. It prevents creosote buildup, reduces fire risks, and improves indoor air quality. Regular cleaning removes food sources for mold and microbes, and sweeps remove particulate matter. Regular cleaning also ensures debris-free operation during winter heating seasons and special occasions.
Selecting an Accredited Testing Lab
Look for credentials like NHL certification through the EPA. Only use approved labs, not testing kits, for accurate analysis. Request test kits from vetted sources. Follow guidelines from the EPA or the health department very carefully. Use certified bottles not exposed to lead, fill correctly, and seal securely with provided labels/forms fully documenting the sample.
Understanding Test Results and Next Steps
Levels below 15 ppb indicate low risk, take routine precautions. Over 15 ppb requires flush protocol, potentially filter installation, or partial/full replacement of lead components. Look for certification with the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program ensuring accuracy. Only use approved labs analyzing samples, not at-home kits that may provide false negatives or positives.
Water Treatment Options for High Lead
Point-of-use filters are certified to remove lead attached to faucets for safer drinking. Repiping with non-leaded materials provides a permanent solution exceeding EPA standard. Levels below 15 parts per billion taken properly indicate low risk, continuing standard practices. Over 15 parts per billion requires flushing/filtering protocol or partial/full replacement of lead components like service lines.
Maintaining Lower Lead Exposure Long-Term
Continue testing every few years. When pregnant/with young children, use only cold water for drinking/cooking until complete re-piping is conducted. Teach children about lead risks to develop healthy habits. Reduces dangerous heavy metal exposure. Provides peace of mind and protects the health of the family, especially young children, through informed choices to lower lead levels. Consult professionals for the best solutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, regular water testing represents a straightforward preventive step to safeguard home plumbing water quality and long-term well-being. Taking a proactive approach empowers homeowners.
