The Associated Press reports that Chicago has more lead water pipes than any other U.S. city, totaling around 400,000 at the time of publication. After sampling residential pipes in the Chicago area, it was uncovered that 7% exceeded federal lead limits recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The EPA uses a weighted average of 0.25% across wetted surfaces, pipes, and pipe fittings to define safe lead levels in plumbing fixtures. Still, trace amounts of lead exposure can impact the brain, soft tissue, organs, and blood. It’s a powerful neurotoxin and a silent pollutant for young children and vulnerable adults.
Here, we’ll explain how to identify lead pipes in your home and offer a few tips to mitigate their risks. Pipe replacement and water filtration are powerful solutions to ensure safe drinking water.
Health Risks Associated with Lead Pipes
Lead isn’t just harmful to children; exposure and ingestion can be just as dangerous to adults. Children 6 years or younger are the most susceptible to lead poisoning, though, since their central nervous systems are still developing.
Over time, lead can cause health risks, like:
Cognitive Loss
Lead is devastating to a child’s cognitive development. Sustained, extreme exposure can result in learning disabilities and hyperactivity. Children are also more prone to hearing loss and stunted growth.
Hypertension
Lead exposure may be an aggravating agent in hypertension, specifically the kind associated with kidney disease. Abnormally high blood pressure is commonly reported in lead exposure cases.
Lead Poisoning
This happens when lead accumulates to dangerous levels in the body. Symptoms of lead poisoning are different for children and adults, but both experience physical issues like abdominal pain and headaches.
Steps Homeowners Can Take to Identify Lead Pipes in Their Home
Lead cannot be tasted, seen, or smelled in water, so testing your pipes and drinking supply is vital. Thankfully, lead is a soft metal that’s easily identified. It might be lead if you can scratch it with a house key.
If you suspect your home has lead pipes, there are a few ways to confirm:
- Age of the property: Homes with water service installed before 1988 have a higher chance of a lead plumbing line.
- Check agency records: If available, check historical real estate records for valuable information about water service and past renovations.
- Test your tap water: Chicago residents can request a free lead test kit, with results sent to you by mail in six to eight weeks.
- Spot signs of decay: Rust-colored water or stained dishes and laundry are indicators of non-plastic plumbing.
- Professional inspection: A trained plumber will be able to detect lead.
How to Mitigate These Dangers: A Guide
Chicago residents can take several steps to reduce their risk of lead exposure and protect the youngest members of their household. A long-term investment is a pipe replacement service, but these methods are easily efficient and cost-effective:
- Prepare baby formula with filtered water
- Provide young children with filtered water
- Use cold tap water to avoid higher levels of contamination
- Clean and maintain faucet aerators
- Install whole-home water filters
- Flush tap water, especially if not in use for several hours
Schedule Pipe Services with the Goode Plumbing Team Today
If you’re unsure about your lead exposure or water line supply, count on Goode Plumbing’s licensed and insured technicians to get the necessary answers. We provide fast and dependable results, offering same-day and 24/7 services to our Chicago, Park Ridge, and Evanston neighbors. Our plumbers specialize in water quality, water testing, and piping services, meeting the unique needs of our community with upfront pricing and transparent care.
Contact a Goode Plumbing professional today for a pipe repair, inspection, or replacement in Chicagoland!
