Lead is a metal commonly used in household plumbing materials, water lines, and paint. While it is also naturally occurring, most people are exposed to some type of lead exposure due to swallowing (water) or breathing it in (paint chips and dust). It’s rarely found in source water, but it gets into tap water as materials corrode over time with lead pipe solder being the usual case, followed by brass or chrome-plated faucets and fixtures deteriorating over time. Hot water unfortunately speeds up the probability.
Does that include shower water? Yes. But the risk comes from the lead actually getting into the bloodstream through ingestion, where it can have some seriously adverse effects. According to the EPA:
In babies and children, exposure to lead in drinking water above the action level can result in delays in physical and mental development, along with slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. In adults, it can cause increases in blood pressure. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure.
Lead is odorless, colorless, and tasteless in water without significant contamination. Therefore it would be a great idea to contact Sci-Chem Water Treatment at 407-301-4655 and have your water tested today!
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