Lead-Free Drinking Water

Lead-Free Drinking water is the buzzword lately after the huge issue in Flint, Michigan. Lead in water has been an overwhelming issue for parts of the United States over the past few years. Lead in drinking water is an issue for everyone but especially children and pregnant women. You can learn more about the effects of lead in water here (https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water#getinto). There are many issues with lead being in drinking water but fortunately there are solutions to this problem. According to The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) the maximum amount of lead content allowed in drinking water is 0.25 percent across wetted surfaces of pipes, fittings, and fixtures, 0.2 percent is the maximum allowed for solder and flux.

Lead can be found in water where pipes are corroding which causes high acidity or low mineral content. Lead-free Drinking Water is infected from the source.  The more common pipes that cause this issue are brass or chrome-plated faucets and fixtures with lead solder. Hot water causes this issue to worsen as it speeds up the corroding process of the pipes.

How do I know if lead is in my drinking water?

If you have a community water system, then the EPA requires each system to file a report annually noting the amount of lead and contaminants in the provided drinking water. You can find out report results by simply contacting your water supplier. If you have well water or another private water supply, then you can contact your local health department to find out the levels of contaminants in your water supply.  If you desire Lead-free Drinking Water it’s important to take measures yourself.

You can also contact your state to find local reputable water testing agencies that will come to your house for a fee. Make sure you print and ask these (https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/home-drinking-water-testing-fact-sheet) questions before hiring a contractor.

If you are worried about your drinking water, you can follow these helpful tips from the EPA:

• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula. Boiling water DOES NOT remove lead from water.
• Regularly clean your faucet’s screen (also known as an aerator).
• Consider using a water filter certified to remove lead and know when it’s time to replace the filter.
• Before drinking, flush your pipes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes.
• Contact your water system to learn more about sources of lead and removing lead service lines.

Water drinking filters and safety precautions

The good news is there are many solutions to levels of lead being in your drinking water. A great solution is to use a highly qualified and lead-free guarantee water filter. Jefferson Valves (link: https://jeffersonvalves.com/) are a leading manufacturer who develops a high-quality line of solenoid valves and level controls. Their valves can be purchased for a variety of equipment or in-home use. Whichever product you choose make sure it is EPA approved and provides a lead-free guarantee.

For more information on the importance of lead-free drinking water, you can visit, https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water#getinto.

https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water#getinto

Call Carter’s My Plumber for more information

Carter’s My Plumber is a 3^rd generation family owned plumbing company.  We provide full service residential and light commercial plumbing.  We specialize in repair and replacement of water heaters, water softeners, drains, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, gas, water & sewer lines, water leaks and any other plumbing device that maintains the health of the home.  We are focused on the proper maintenance of a home’s sanitation and plumbing in order to maintain a healthy balance.