How does lead get into tap water?
Typically, lead gets into your water after the water leaves your local treatment plant or your well. That is, the source of lead in your home’s water is most likely from pipes or solder in your home’s own plumbing. The most common cause is corrosion, a reaction between the water and the lead pipes or solder. Dissolved oxygen, low pH (acidity) and low mineral content in water are common causes of corrosion. All kinds of water, however, may have high levels of lead.
Related Questions
- I live in a house with a lead connection to the municipal water main and my children have been drinking tap water since they were born. Should I be afraid for their health?
- What is the City doing about the elevated lead levels in household tap water?
- Is lead in tap water still a public health problem?
