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 want to thank you for the home inspection you did for us at 144 Avis Ave. in Dracut MA. We did not get the house because the home owners did not want to split the cost of fixing that wall. I had gotten two estimates, one from a landscaper and one from a Mason. Both gave an estimate of $15,000.00, for which I am grateful for your inspection and pointing out the wall problem. It would of been an undue burden on us, not to mention I am also grateful about the radon testing also. I just got the results today and they came back at 7.5 and 8.4, so that would of been another expense. I do hope that when we find a new house that you will be able to do our home inspection. Your fee was a drop in the hat, to what it would of cost us to fix the wall and then the cost of venting the basement. My husband was also very impressed with your report and how well it was written. Just wanted to drop you a line to let you know what happened, and hopefully will be doing business with you again very soon.

Have a Good Day
Jackie Sliney