Lead In Drinking Water

lead in drinking water

While drinking water is not typically a significant source of lead exposure compared to lead-based paint, it can still pose serious health risks. Young children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, even with short-term exposure. Infants are at the highest risk, especially if their diet consists primarily of liquids like baby formula prepared with contaminated water. Water with lead levels exceeding 15 parts per billion (ppb) should never be used to mix infant formula, as it can severely impact a child's development, leading to learning disabilities and stunted growth.

For adults, lead exposure primarily affects the peripheral nervous system, potentially causing hearing and vision impairments, as well as muscle coordination issues. Additionally, lead is toxic to the blood, kidneys, heart, and reproductive system, making it essential to address any concerns regarding lead in your drinking water.

Lead can enter your drinking water from various sources, including old buried lead service lines that connect your house to the water main, lead pipe connectors, lead-soldered joints in copper plumbing, and chrome-plated faucets made of brass, which typically contain 3 to 8 percent lead.

In homes with private wells, underwater pumps with brass fittings can also contribute to elevated lead levels, particularly when using new pumps or soft water. Lead contamination occurs when water comes into contact with these fixtures, allowing lead to leach into the water supply.

When water remains stagnant in lead pipes or plumbing systems containing lead for several hours or longer, the risk of lead dissolving into your drinking water increases. As a result, the first water drawn from the tap in the morning or after extended periods of non-use — such as returning home from work or school — may contain higher levels of lead.

If your home uses well water, I highly recommend having your water tested for lead.

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Dear David,

I just wanted to write a quick thank-you for the professional and informative job that you did at my home inspection on Monday. As a first time home buyer I was incredibly nervous going into the inspection not knowing what to expect - what should I be asking? What should I be looking for? it was all very overwhelming. However, after the first 15 minutes of the inspection, you quickly put all of my fears to rest!

The way that you took the time to point out and explain to me everything that you were looking for, as well as all of the helpful suggestions that you so freely gave out instantly, had put my mind at ease. I was able to feel that I was in good hands and knew that I had a “Professional” doing the job. This was solidified for me at the end of the inspection when you went over your extensive report with me, item by item ensuring that I fully understood what was there.

Your professionalism and expertise was so greatly appreciated. If ever anyone asks for a recommendation please feel free to give them my name, it would be my pleasure to help put another home buyer’s worried mind to ease by letting them know that with Massachusetts Home Inspections, they can count on a professional job well done.

With Kind Regards,

Karen S.