There are a few best practices that can help to lessen the chances of ingesting trace amounts of lead from drinking water.
- Have your water tested – Contact your water utility or see vendors below to have your water tested and to learn more about the lead levels in your drinking water.
- Learn if you have a lead service line – Contact your water utility or a licensed plumber to determine if the pipe that connects your home to the water main (called a service line) is made from lead.
- Run the tap before use – Lead levels are likely at their highest when water has been sitting in the pipe for several hours. Clear this water from your pipes by running the cold water for several minutes. This allows you to draw fresh water from the main. The Roswell Water utility or a certified plumber can help you assess the right length of time. You can use this water on house plants or to flush toilets.
- Learn about construction in your neighborhood – Be aware of any construction or maintenance work that could disturb your lead service line. Construction may cause more lead to be released from a lead service line.
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking – Always cook and prepare baby formula with cold water, because hot water dissolves lead more quickly, resulting in higher levels in water.
- Clean your aerator – Aerators are small attachments at the tips of faucets which regulate the flow of water. They can accumulate small particles of lead in their screens. It’s a good idea to remove your aerators at least monthly and clean them out.
- Use your filter properly – If you use a filter, make sure you use a filter certified to remove lead. Read the directions to learn how to properly install and use your cartridge and when to replace it. Using the cartridge after it has expired can make it less effective at removing lead. Do not run hot water through the filter. Find out more on filter certification at the NSF website.