How can I tell if there are lead pipes, lead solder, or other lead components in my household plumbing?

The existence of lead service lines is often difficult to determine unless the lines are dug up and examined or unless there are records available. The first thing to do is to check with your water provider. They should be able to tell you if you have lead service lines to your house. Homes that are more likely to have lead lines are generally those built either in the early 1900’s, during the 1930’s, or during World War II when there was a copper shortage, and lead service lines were used. Inside the home, the use of lead service lines and lead solder is not generally known by the water provider and would be up to the homeowner to investigate. Brass fixtures, fittings and valves can contain up to 8% lead. Even new brass fittings can leach a considerable amount of lead in contact with corrosive water. The use of lead solder for plumbing was banned in 1985. • What does the EPA Action Level for lead in drinking water mean? EPA has established an Action Level for lead in drinking water of ... more