How can you reduce exposure to lead in drinking water?

1 Test your water

The first step to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water is to test your water quality. You can contact your local water utility or health department to find out if they offer free or low-cost testing kits, or you can buy one from a certified laboratory or online retailer. Follow the instructions carefully and collect samples from different taps in your home, especially those that you use for drinking and cooking. If your test results show that your water has more than 15 parts per billion (ppb) of lead, which is the action level set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you should take immediate action to reduce your exposure.

2 Use cold water

The second step to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water is to use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water can dissolve more lead from pipes and fixtures, so avoid using it for consumption. You can also run your cold water for a few minutes before using it, especially if it has been sitting in the pipes for a long time, such as overnight or after a vacation. This can flush out some of the lead that may have accumulated in the water.

3 Replace your pipes and fixtures

The third step to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water is to replace your pipes and fixtures that contain lead or lead solder. This is the most effective and permanent way to eliminate the source of lead contamination in your water. However, it can also be the most expensive and complicated option, depending on the age and condition of your plumbing system. You may need to hire a licensed plumber to do the job, and you may need to get permission from your landlord or homeowner's association if you live in a rented or shared property. You should also check with your local water utility or health department if they offer any financial assistance or rebate programs for lead pipe replacement.

4 Use a filter

The fourth step to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water is to use a filter that is certified to remove lead by an independent organization, such as NSF International or the Water Quality Association. You can choose from different types of filters, such as faucet-mounted, pitcher, or under-sink models, depending on your preference and budget. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to install, use, and maintain the filter, and replace the filter cartridge regularly. You should also test your water after installing the filter to make sure it is working properly.

5 Drink bottled water

The fifth step to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water is to drink bottled water that meets the standards of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the state where it is bottled. This can be a temporary or alternative solution if you cannot test, flush, replace, or filter your tap water. However, bottled water can also be expensive and environmentally unfriendly, so you should weigh the costs and benefits of this option. You should also check the label and the source of the bottled water, and avoid buying water that is packaged in plastic containers that may leach chemicals into the water.

6 Educate yourself and others

The sixth step to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water is to educate yourself and others about the risks and solutions of lead contamination. You can learn more about the sources, effects, and regulations of lead in drinking water from reliable websites, such as the EPA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO). You can also share this information with your family, friends, neighbors, and community members, and encourage them to take action to protect their health. You can also advocate for more funding and support for lead testing and remediation programs, and participate in public forums and consultations on water quality issues.