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Well Water
H.%
May Have Lead '
“Homeowners with private wells need to be aware of a possible lead hazard in their drinking water, especially if they have children,” said U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Peter H. Kostmayer.
Based upon data received recently, EPA advises homeowners with private wells having submersible brass pumps to have their water tested to see if it contains levels of lead in excess of the action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). The EPA has found that the brass alloys used in such pumps contain lead that can leach into drinking water especially if water is soft and corrsive.
EPA has prepared information on various things the homeowner can do to reduce exposure to lead, if the test indicates lead about 15 ppb. A water test for lead typically costs from $15 to $40, depending on the lab. While waiting for test results, which can take a week of two, homeowners with new pumps less than a year old, may want to use bottled water to prevent possible additional lead exposure, since new brass leaches lead at higher rates. This step is especially appropriate if there are children in the home, since children are particularly sensitive to lead.
The data on submersible pumps came from the Environmental Defense Fund which performed laboratory studies following an NSF International test protocol. Submersible pumps are often used in homes that are not on public water and have their own wells. EPA does not have data that would tell how long the high lead leaching continues.
The EPA will undertake further testing of its own subject to peer review. Because the levels in this initial study are high, EPA is offering advice to homeowners that emphasizes public health protection above all else.
EPA has prepared its hotlines (800-426-4791 for drinking water, 800-424-LEAD for lead) to answer questions about the problem and has assembled some factural material and suggestions to the public on how to have water tested on what actions the public can take to reduce potential exposure to lead. When EPA completes its studies, it will provide thepublic with additional information.
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