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 was very impressed with you on Monday when we met in Peabody . I have never seen a home inspector spend 4 hours doing the most total inspection you did. And not only doing the inspection but educating your client at the same time.

I am sending you a new client, his name is Norman C. He is a good friend of mine. He is buying a house in Wenham on lake street and asked if I knew a "good" home inspector.

I have seen a lot of home inspectors over the years. The general contractor who couldn't make it on his own and thought that being a home inspector was another way of making money. But, all the while feeding his bad information along with his bad practices. David, your not that guy. I put you in the top 5% of all the home inspectors I've seen in the past 25 years. Well done!

David Carnevale

Owner 1-800-PLUNGER