Lead in drinking water is a serious health concern that homeowners in Central Oregon—and across the United States—shouldn’t ignore. Even small amounts of lead can pose risks, particularly to young children, pregnant women, and infants. The good news is that testing your water for lead is a straightforward process, and knowing what to do if you find elevated levels can help keep your household safe.
According to the EPA’s guide on lead in drinking water, there is no safe level of lead exposure. This makes regular testing and preventative measures essential.
Why Lead in Water Is a Concern
Lead typically enters drinking water through corrosion of plumbing materials that contain lead—such as pipes, solder, and brass fixtures. While Central Oregon’s municipal water supply is regularly monitored and treated, homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes or plumbing fixtures that can leach lead into the water.
Exposure to lead in drinking water can result in:
- Developmental delays and learning problems in children
- High blood pressure and kidney issues in adults
- Reproductive problems
- Neurological damage with prolonged exposure
Given the risks, it’s critical for homeowners to be proactive in testing and mitigation.
How to Test Your Water for Lead
Testing your water is the only way to know if lead is present—since lead has no taste, smell, or color. Here’s how to do it:
1. Use an EPA-Certified Testing Kit
The EPA recommends using only state-certified laboratories for accurate results. You can:
- Order a testing kit from your local water authority
- Purchase an EPA-approved home test and send samples to a certified lab
2. Collect the Right Samples
For the most accurate reading:
- Take a first-draw sample: Water that has been sitting in pipes for at least 6 hours (such as overnight)
- Take a flushed sample: After running the tap for several minutes
This will help determine if lead is coming from your home’s plumbing or from the municipal supply.
3. Follow Lab Instructions Exactly
Improper sample collection can lead to false results. Always follow the instructions provided with your test kit.
What to Do If Your Water Tests Positive for Lead
If your test shows any lead presence—especially levels at or above 15 parts per billion (ppb), which is the EPA’s action level—it’s time to act.
1. Stop Drinking the Water
Use bottled water or a certified lead-removing filter for drinking, cooking, and baby formula preparation.
2. Flush Your Pipes
Run your tap for several minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially in the morning or after long periods of non-use.
3. Install a Certified Filter
Use filters that are NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certified for lead removal. Remember to replace them according to manufacturer guidelines.
4. Replace Lead Plumbing Components
If testing shows the source is your home’s plumbing, consider upgrading to lead-free fixtures and replacing old lead pipes.
Einstein Pros’ plumbing services can help identify and replace any outdated components to ensure your water stays safe.
Preventing Lead in Your Home’s Water
Prevention is key to keeping lead out of your household water supply.
- Regularly test: Especially in older homes or after plumbing work
- Upgrade plumbing: Use only lead-free materials for repairs and installations
- Maintain filters: Ensure all filters used are certified for lead removal and changed regularly
- Check with your water provider: Request information on lead testing and treatment programs
Lead in Well Water
If your Central Oregon home uses well water, lead contamination is more likely to come from your plumbing system rather than the well itself. However, private wells are not regulated by the EPA, so the responsibility to test and treat falls entirely on the homeowner.
Einstein Pros offers well water inspection and maintenance to help ensure your water is safe.
Why Professional Help Matters
While home test kits can provide valuable information, a licensed plumber can:
- Pinpoint the exact source of lead
- Recommend permanent solutions rather than temporary fixes
- Replace hazardous components in compliance with safety standards
Einstein Pros serves homeowners throughout Central Oregon, providing thorough inspections, pipe replacements, and water filtration installations to meet EPA standards for safe drinking water.
Final Thoughts
Lead contamination is a silent but serious risk. Regular testing, proactive maintenance, and informed action can protect your family’s health. By following the EPA’s recommendations on lead in drinking water and partnering with trusted local professionals like Einstein Pros, you can ensure your home’s water is clean, safe, and lead-free.