Lead contamination in drinking water is a serious health risk, yet it often goes unnoticed. Since lead is colorless, tasteless, and odorless, many homeowners may not realize they are exposed. Long-term lead consumption can cause serious health issues, especially in children and pregnant women. If your home has older plumbing or you notice unusual changes in your water, lead water testing is crucial.
In this blog, we’ll cover the signs of lead contamination, how to test your water, and what to do if your supply is affected.
How to Know If Your Water Supply Contains Lead
1. Check Your Plumbing System
Your home’s plumbing is one of the most common sources of lead contamination. Houses built before 1986 often have lead pipes, lead solder, or brass fixtures that contain lead. To check, inspect exposed pipes—lead pipes are dull gray and easily scratched with a coin or key. If you’re unsure, a plumber can help identify lead components.
Even if your home doesn’t have lead pipes, corrosion in older plumbing can still introduce lead into your water. Acidic or soft water can cause pipes to break down over time, leaching lead particles into the water supply. This is especially concerning if your home’s pipes haven’t been replaced in decades.
2. Look for Changes in Water Quality
While lead itself doesn’t alter water’s appearance, smell, or taste, other signs may indicate contamination. If your water appears discolored—especially brown, orange, or cloudy—it could signal pipe corrosion, increasing the risk of lead exposure. Similarly, metallic-tasting water may suggest the presence of heavy metals.
Sediment buildup in water is another warning sign. If you notice particles settling at the bottom of a glass after pouring water, it could be rust or pipe debris. While this doesn’t confirm lead contamination, it does indicate deteriorating pipes, which should be inspected.
3. Review Your Local Water Quality Report
Public water systems are required to provide annual water quality reports, detailing contaminant levels, including lead. You can request this report from your local water supplier or find it on their website. If lead levels are high in your area, your home’s water may also be at risk.
However, these reports only reflect the water before it reaches your home. If your plumbing system contains lead pipes or fixtures, contamination could still occur. That’s why it’s important to test your own tap water, especially if you live in an older home.
4. Conduct a Lead Water Test
The most reliable way to determine if your water contains lead is through lead water testing. At-home test kits can detect the presence of lead, but their accuracy is limited. For precise results, laboratory testing is recommended, as it can measure lead levels down to parts per billion (ppb).
To get the most accurate results, collect water samples from different taps, especially those used for drinking and cooking. Be sure to test both stagnant water (after sitting in pipes overnight) and running water, as lead levels can vary. If the results show any detectable lead, take action immediately to reduce exposure.
5. Consider Your Home’s Age and Renovation History
Homes built before the 1980s are more likely to have lead pipes or solder, but even newer homes aren’t always safe. Some plumbing fixtures, including faucets and valves, were manufactured with small amounts of lead until 2014, when stricter regulations were enforced.
Renovations can also disturb lead particles, temporarily increasing contamination levels. If you’ve recently replaced pipes or disturbed old plumbing, it’s a good idea to test your water to ensure it’s still safe to drink.
Also Read: How Can You Test for Lead in Your Water
Looking for Reliable Lead Water Testing Services?
Lead contamination isn’t always obvious, but testing is the only way to be sure your water is safe. Manhattan Lead provides accurate and reliable lead water testing, helping homeowners detect contamination before it becomes a health risk. Our expert team ensures fast results and clear guidance on the next steps if lead is found.
Don’t take chances with your water—contact us for a professional water lead test today!
