Lead in Faucets and Service Pipes

Safeguard Your Drinking Water – Trustworthy Resources for Lead Safety

Knowledge is power when it comes to ensuring safe drinking water for you and your family. We’ve compiled essential resources to help you stay informed and take proactive steps to minimize lead exposure from your water supply.

Rhode Island Department of Public Health (RIDPH): For local insights and guidance, visit the RIDPH website at http://health.ri.gov/water/about/lead/. This valuable resource offers comprehensive information on lead in drinking water, covering preventive measures and steps to protect your health.

NSF Certified Products: To ensure you’re using reliable and lead-free plumbing fixtures, water filters, and bottled water, turn to the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation). Their certification guarantees product safety and can be reached at 1-800-NSF-MARK or their website, www.nsf.org. Trust NSF-certified products to keep lead contamination at bay.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Website: The EPA is a reliable source of information on lead in drinking water. For a solid foundation of knowledge, visit their website at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water. Find in-depth insights and guidelines to understand better lead risks and how to address them effectively.

By tapping into these reputable resources, you can make informed decisions about your drinking water and implement the necessary steps to safeguard your family’s health. Take action today and ensure your water is free from lead contaminants. Remember, knowledge is your best defense!

Embrace the Era of Lead-Free Faucets – Compliant with the Latest Regulations

At the forefront of safety and innovation, faucet manufacturers have taken decisive action in response to recent regulations. Residential kitchen faucets, bathroom faucets, bar faucets, drinking fountains, and ice-makers have all undergone significant changes to decrease or eliminate lead content.

Starting January 4, 2014, all faucets are now produced with no more than a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead concerning the wetted surface. This national standard ensures that every faucet you choose meets stringent lead-free requirements, offering you and your family peace of mind.

Certification for Plumbing Fixtures: The National Sanitary Foundation (NSF) determines plumbing fixtures’ “lead-free” status. The NSF’s International Standard 61-Section 9 is the benchmark for lead-free compliance. When you purchase new faucets adhering to the NSF 61 standard, you can easily identify them by the “NSF 61/9” stamp on the product’s cardboard box.

For More Information: If you’re eager to explore an array of lead-free fixtures, including catalogs and website directories, the NSF is your trusted source. Get in touch with them at 1-800-NSF-MARK or visit www.nsf.org.

With this industry-wide commitment to lead-free faucets, you can confidently choose fixtures that prioritize your health and safety. Upgrade your home with faucets that comply with the highest standards, and join us in creating a healthier future for everyone. For a lead-free world, trust NSF-certified faucets – your reliable partner in safeguarding water quality.

Minimize Lead Exposure from Drinking Water with Cost-Effective Solutions!

Protecting your family from lead exposure is essential, and we’ve got you covered with the most effective and budget-friendly ways to ensure safe drinking water. Here are three simple steps you can take to minimize lead exposure:

Flush Faucets Daily: Every morning or after returning home from school or work, run the faucets used for drinking and cooking until the water turns cold. This process ensures that fresh water from the street’s main supply replaces any stagnant water in your household plumbing, reducing the risk of lead contamination.

Use Cold Water for Drinking and Cooking: Whenever possible, rely on cold water for drinking and cooking. Hot water is more likely to leach lead from plumbing fixtures, so using cold water mitigates this risk and keeps you and your loved ones safe.

Regular Water Testing: If you’re concerned about the quality of your drinking water, consider getting it tested by a reputable laboratory. Regular testing will provide valuable insights and peace of mind regarding the lead levels in your water supply.

Bonus Tip: Ensure that only valves and filters specifically designed for drinking water supply are used for any home plumbing projects. This precautionary measure prevents potential lead contamination in your household water.

Following these practical and cost-effective steps, you can proactively safeguard your family’s health and well-being from lead exposure in drinking water. Make informed choices and enjoy peace of mind with every sip!

Safeguarding Your Water: Understanding the Impact of Older Faucets

When it comes to older faucets, it’s crucial to be aware of their potential impact on water quality. In extreme cases, these faucets can contribute up to one-third of the lead in water that has been stagnant in pipes for extended periods. The remaining lead content originates from other plumbing sources, such as pre-1988 lead solder joints in copper pipes or a lead service line.

Here’s what you should know:

Faucet Contribution: In extreme cases, older faucets can be a significant lead source in your water supply. Over time, lead from these fixtures may leach into the water that has been sitting stagnant in pipes, adding to the lead content.

Other Plumbing Sources: Besides faucets, it’s essential to consider other potential sources of lead contamination in your plumbing system. Pre-1988 lead solder joints in copper pipes or a lead service line can also contribute to lead presence in your water.

Mitigating Risks: To reduce the risk of lead exposure, consider regular flushing of faucets and pipes before use. Flushing helps to clear out any stagnant water containing lead and ensures fresher water from the main supply.

Replace Old Fixtures: Consider upgrading older faucets and plumbing components to newer, lead-free alternatives if possible. Modern fixtures are designed to meet stricter safety standards, helping to minimize potential lead leaching.

Water Testing: To understand your water quality comprehensively, consider periodic water testing. This will help identify the presence of lead and other contaminants, enabling you to take appropriate measures to address any concerns.

By staying informed about the potential impact of older faucets and other plumbing sources on your water quality, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and the well-being of your loved ones. Prioritize water safety and make informed decisions to ensure clean, lead-free water in your home.

At BCWA, we prioritize your health and safety by ensuring that our water supply remains lead-free as it travels through cast iron, ductile iron, or concrete pipes to your street. However, we want to inform you of potential lead sources in tap water within your home.

  1. Sources of Lead: Lead can enter your tap water through various avenues, such as lead service lines connecting your house to the street pipe, lead solder used in plumbing, and certain brass fixtures. Corrosion or wear and tear of lead-based materials may also contribute to lead presence, especially if water sits idle in the pipes for extended periods.
  2. Our Proactive Measures: BCWA takes proactive steps to minimize lead exposure. We have removed most lead services in our water system, and we continue to be vigilant during inspections and meter changes to identify any lead on the homeowner’s side of the connection. We are currently reviewing galvanized iron services, and if any lead connectors are found, they will be promptly addressed.
  3. Commitment to Lead-Free Water: We pride ourselves on maintaining very low or non-detectable lead levels in our water tests. In the rare case of lead discovery in our system, we promptly take action to remove it.
  4. Homeowner’s Responsibility: While we ensure the safety of our water supply, it’s essential to note that the portion of the service line from the property line into your house is the homeowner’s responsibility. If, upon inspection, we find a non-copper service line or one in poor condition, we will recommend its replacement to protect your water quality further.

At BCWA, your well-being is our top priority. We remain committed to delivering safe, lead-free water to your home and will continue to take proactive measures to safeguard your health. Together, let’s ensure the water you use daily remains a source of nourishment and well-being for you and your family.

Protecting Your Water: Understanding the Gaps in Lead Regulations

When it comes to lead regulations, it’s essential to be aware of potential gaps in coverage. Federal and State regulations, while crucial in ensuring safe water, may not encompass certain fixtures, leaving potential areas of concern. Here’s what you need to know:

Uncovered Fixtures: Hose bibs, bathtub fixtures, shower heads, and industrial faucets are not currently covered by Federal and State lead regulations. This means specific precautions and testing might be necessary to ensure water safety from these fixtures.

Stay Proactive: Although these fixtures are not regulated, it’s essential to safeguard your water quality. Regularly inspecting and maintaining these fixtures can help minimize potential lead exposure.

Water Testing: Consider periodic water testing to identify any lead presence from unregulated fixtures. This will enable you to take prompt action if lead levels concern you.

Opt for Certified Products: When replacing or upgrading fixtures, choose products certified by reputable organizations like the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation). These certified fixtures meet stringent standards and are designed to reduce lead exposure risks.

Seek Professional Advice: If you have concerns about water safety from unregulated fixtures, consult water quality experts or local health departments for guidance and recommended actions.

Being informed about these gaps in lead regulations empowers you to protect your water and your loved ones proactively. Remember, while some fixtures may fall outside the scope of regulations, your commitment to water safety can make all the difference. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and safeguard your water supply today!

Upgrade to Safer Faucets – A Look at Lead-Free Progression

Before 1997, most faucets were made from brass or chrome-plated brass, which could contain up to 8 percent lead (a combination of copper and zinc). Over time, this lead content posed potential health risks as water sat stagnant, allowing lead to leach from the faucet’s interior and elevated lead levels in the initial draw of drinking water.

In response to growing concerns, regulations introduced after 1997 required faucets containing reduced lead levels to minimize lead leaching. However, the journey towards safer water didn’t stop there.

Enter the game-changing legislation aptly named “Get the Lead Out.” Effective from January 4, 2014, this groundbreaking regulation mandates that all faucets purchased after this date must have no more than a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead concerning the wetted surface.

The “Get the Lead Out” legislation marks a significant milestone in the mission to provide lead-free faucets to consumers. By adhering to the new standard, faucet manufacturers prioritize your well-being, ensuring that lead exposure is minimized.

Upgrade your faucets confidently, knowing that newer models comply with the “Get the Lead Out” regulation, and offer you and your loved ones a safer drinking water experience. Embrace the lead-free era and switch today to protect your health and enjoy clean, safe water for years.

Regarding faucet options, many manufacturers are prioritizing your health and well-being. The industry has seen remarkable advancements, offering various lead-free alternatives to traditional faucets.

Plastic Faucets – Virtually Zero Lead: Some forward-thinking manufacturers have introduced plastic faucets with virtually zero lead content. These faucets provide a safe and eco-friendly option, eliminating lead-leaching concerns entirely.

Substituting Lead in Brass: Others are taking a proactive approach by substituting lead in brass with alternative metals. This innovative technique ensures the faucets remain durable and reliable while significantly reducing lead content.

Copper Tubes Inside Brass Faucets: An ingenious solution involves inserting copper tubes inside brass faucets. This clever design minimizes lead leaching, offering a practical and efficient way to enjoy clean water.

Special Coatings for Lead Elimination: Another breakthrough method involves applying special coatings on the inside of faucets. These coatings are designed to minimize or eliminate lead leaching, protecting you and your family.

Embracing “Lead-Free” Standards: Recent legislation has spurred more faucet manufacturers to proudly embrace the “lead-free” definition, adhering to a strict maximum of 0.25 percent lead content. This shift ensures consumers can make informed choices about faucets that meet stringent safety standards.

With these exciting innovations, you now have a wide array of lead-free faucet options. Whether it’s plastic faucets, lead-substituted brass, copper inserts, or special coatings, the industry is committed to your safety and peace of mind. Switch to lead-free faucets today, and take an active step toward a healthier and happier home environment.