Lead Question

ch0mpie

A previous owner of my house built some stupid enclosure for the water meter. The water company wants to put in a new meter now and told me I have remove the enclosure. Upon doing so I found that the pipe coming from the street to the meter is lead. Should I be conserned? I read the CDC's website, it explains all about running your water for 2 min. befored drinking or cooking. Wondering if you guys think I should consider replacing this pipe?

Framer53

You could test the water first to see if it really is a problem now or can be put off.

Personally, if you can afford it, replace it.

KillerToiletSpider

There are thousands upon thousands of lead water services in Chicago, and no one has proven that they have killed or sickened a single person.

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A flush is better than a full house.

Framer53

Has become an issue around here. Supposedly it elevates lead level in children.

KillerToiletSpider

Show me proof that it is directly related to the water services. Lead water services almost always have a mineral lining on the inside of the pipe from the lime and iron in the water clinging to the inside of the pipe walls, the water itself is not in contact with the lead.

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A flush is better than a full house.

BCConstruction

Just like the EPA RRP rule lead can be blown way out of propotion. I have seen hundreds of lead water mains and never ever ever heard of a single problem from them but they are ment to be a higher risk of lead exposure for home owners. Way above lead paint infact. Test the water then if you find even small traces of lead and can afford it then change it or get a good water filter. Our lake house has very high lead levels and iron levels and our water filter can remove it without problems. Wernt cheap though.

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