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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Hi Dave,

I just wanted to write a quick thank you for your work inspecting 43 1/2 Bartholomew Street in Peabody yesterday. As a buyer in the process of trying to purchase my first home, it's been difficult to know who to trust. I honestly cannot believe some of the stuff I've run into, so I had to write & let you know that I found you professional, competent, & all around above par. In all of the people I've had to deal with up to this point, you were one of the few that actually took the time to explain things in a way that an inexperienced first time home buyer would understand. I never once felt rushed or talked down to.

Based on your inspection, I've decided not to purchase the home at 43 1/2 Bartholomew Street. I will however, continue to look & will hopefully find a house more suited to my needs in the near future. When that happens I will be calling on your expertise once again. In the meantime, I will certainly recommend you to any of my family & friends that may need a home inspection.

Thanks again,

Lisa G.