Lead in Drinking Water: Testing and Filter Selection

Where lead comes from

The EPA explains that lead pipes, faucets and fixtures are the most common sources, and that lead service lines connecting the home to the water main are a significant source in older homes. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures or solder. Water that sits in pipes for hours can pick up more lead. Utilities are required to inventory service line materials; many publish a lookup tool, so ask yours.

How to test

• Use a laboratory certified for drinking water testing. Your utility or county health department can point you to one, and some utilities offer lead testing to customers.
• Follow the lab's sampling instructions exactly. A first-draw sample (water that sat overnight) usually shows the worst case.
• Consider a second, flushed sample to see whether standing water is the main issue.
• Test again after plumbing work or a service line replacement. See changes after plumbing work.

An in-home screening is useful for many things, but lead belongs with a certified lab. See home screening vs lab analysis.

Everyday steps the EPA recommends

• Run the tap before drinking if water has been sitting; how long depends on whether you have a lead service line.
• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula.
• Boiling does not remove lead.
• Clean faucet aerators regularly.

Choosing a filter for lead

The EPA advises using a filter certified to remove lead. In practice:

• Look for NSF/ANSI 53 (filters) or NSF/ANSI 58 (reverse osmosis) with lead listed as a reduction claim.
• Check the exact model in the certifier's listing, including the replacement cartridge.
• Respect the capacity. The EPA says to replace cartridges when expired and not to run hot water through filters.
• Match the form to your use: pitcher, faucet-mount, under-sink or RO. Under-sink systems serve the kitchen tap where you drink and cook.

Living Water's under-sink alkaline RO is one point-of-use option; check that model's listing for lead before relying on it, as you should with any system. Compare carbon vs RO.

Fixing the source

A filter manages exposure at the tap; replacing a lead service line or old fixtures addresses the source. Ask your utility about service line replacement programs, and use a licensed plumber for fixture and pipe work.

Reading your results

Your lab report shows a lead result for each sample, usually in parts per billion or micrograms per liter, alongside a reporting limit. If the first-draw result is higher than the flushed one, standing water in your plumbing is a big part of the picture. Share results with your utility, which can explain how they compare with the federal Lead and Copper Rule and what programs it offers. A single result is a snapshot; retesting after any changes gives a clearer view.

Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist