What is DC WASA doing to reduce lead levels?
Orthophosphate, a common food-grade chemical is being added to the water by the Washington Aqueduct at the treatment plants at a concentration of approximately 2 parts per million (ppm). This chemical was introduced in August 2004 to the water distribution system and has reduced lead concentrations in over 92% of the homes tested to below EPA’s action level of less than or equal to 15 ppb. Orthophosphate works by building up a thin protective coating inside pipes and plumbing fixtures to prevent water from corroding pipes which cause metals to leach.
