Basic Information about Lead in Drinking Water

Publication Year:

2015

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Resource Type:

Factsheet

Questions and answers about lead in drinking water — health effects, EPA regulations etc.

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Resource Type

Factsheet

Publication Year

2015

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Lead can enter drinking water through various sources, including lead service lines, lead solder, and brass or chrome-plated faucets and fixtures. Exposure to lead can cause a range of health effects, especially in children, including developmental delays, lower IQ, and behavioral problems.

To reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, the EPA recommends flushing the tap for at least 30 seconds before using water for drinking or cooking, using cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula, and considering a point-of-use (POU) treatment system that is certified to remove lead. It is also important to maintain plumbing fixtures and replace any that contain lead. Homeowners can contact their local water utility or a certified laboratory to have their water tested for lead.