The EPA requires that all lead pipes be replaced in 10 years
On 10/08/24 the EPA finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvement (LCRI), which mandates that water utility companies replace all lead pipes within the next 10 years. This new rule not only lowers the action level from 15 ppb to 10 ppb, but also enhances communication between water utilities and the community.
By providing residents with more resources, the LCRI aims to help them understand the dangers of lead in their water and determine whether their drinking water is safe.
Why are lead pipes dangerous?
When lead pipes are used, lead can leach into the water. This prolonged exposure can pose a serious health risk, especially to children. Here are some of the negative effects of lead according to the EPA.
Children:
- Behavior and learning problem
- Hyperactivity, it may be linked to Attention Disorders
- Anemia
- Lower IQ
Pregnant Women:
- Reduced fetus growth
- Premature birth
Adults:
- Increased blood pressure
- Decreased kidney function
- Reproductive problems for men and women
How does lead get into my drinking water?
Lead can enter your drinking water through several sources, and the LCRI specifically aims to address lead contamination originating from the water utility system itself. This system not only serves your home but also extends to the entire community. If you have questions about whether your water utilities system is currently utilizing lead pipes you can ask your local utility department.
Even if the public system is lead free, your home may have several points that could be leaching lead like lead solder on pipes or your faucets. Inside your home the only way to know if you have lead in your water system is by testing your individual drinking water.
How do I test my water for lead?
There are two main methods to test for lead in your water. One will be a DIY test kit that you can buy and test at home, and the other will be In-Lab Testing.
The benefit of the at-home test will be cost and convenience. They are very affordable and will give you results within 10 minutes.
Our DIY at-home test kit will let you know if your water has lead above a set limit and is useful for an initial screening. If the DIY lead test kit gives you a positive result, you will want to use our In-lab test kit to determine your exact levels and try to find the source of the lead exposure.
The In-Lab Testing will give you more detailed results, including exact lead levels. For our In-Lab Test Kits, you get two tests meaning you can test two locations. Or test a “first draw” and a “flush draw” of one location. And if you have any questions about your results, our team would be happy to help you.
Summary:
The EPA finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvement (LCRI), requiring water utilities to replace all lead pipes within 10 years and lowering the lead detection threshold from 15 ppb to 10 ppb. The LCRI also aims to improve public communication about the dangers of lead in drinking water. To detect lead in water, consumers can use DIY test kits for initial screening or use our EPA certified lab.
