Lead Pipes

DC Water and Sewer Authority's (DC WASA) mission is to provide quality water to each of its customers. DC WASA continues to conduct its lead pipe replacement program and offers the opportunity for customers to replace private lead service lines. Service lines are the pipes that bring water from the main in the street to your house. When water is not used for several hours and stands in the pipes, lead can enter drinking water from lead-based plumbing, fixtures and service lines. Following these tips can help minimize lead in drinking water.

You may also download these tips on reducing lead exposure (PDF 1.0 mb) .

Replace Lead Service Lines
Replace lead service pipes with copper service pipes.
Removal of the entire lead service line is the most effective way of reducing lead. In most cases, DC WASA will replace the public service line if you decide to replace the private portion. To find out more about full lead service line replacements, contact our Customer Service department at 202-354-3600.
Replace Galvanized Household Plumbing
Residents that have or had lead service lines connected to in-house galvanized pipes, can potentially have lead released in tap water from these corroded pipes.
Replace old household galvanized plumbing.
If pipe replacement is not an option, NSF certified filters, at the tap or filtration pitchers, are available to remove lead.
Install Lead-free Plumbing Fixtures
Lead-free fixtures are much lower in lead than "standard" fixtures.
Look for "lead-free" labels when purchasing new plumbing fixtures.
Run the Cold Water Tap when it has Not Been Used for Several Hours
When the water has not been used for several hours, run the cold tap for two minutes before using for drinking and cooking.
Lead and other metals can dissolve in water when it stands in pipes for long periods of time.
Clean and Replace Faucet Strainers
Routinely remove faucet aerators and clean strainers of all debris.
Metals and other sediment can build up in the strainer.
Drain Your Hot Water Heater Annually
Draining the hot water heater removes any unnecessary sediment and metals that can accumulate over time.
This also prevents low water pressure and clogging of hot water pipes.
Flush Your Faucets if You Replace Your Pipes or Fixtures
After replacing plumbing fixtures or pipes, run the cold water taps for several minutes before each use for several days.
Pipe replacements and construction can cause particles from pipe walls to enter the water.
Use Only Cold Water for Cooking and Drinking
Hot water can con¬tain higher concen¬trations of metals and s solids that build up in the hot water heater over time.
Use Filtered Tap Water if you are Pregnant or have Young Children
If you have lead service lines and you are pregnant and/or have children under the age of six, you should drink filtered tap water and use filtered tap water to prepare infant formula or concentrated juices.

What can you find in this section?