Sources of Lead in Drinking Water 

• The primary source of lead in drinking water is water service lines that contain lead. Homes built before 1960 are more likely to have lead service lines.
• Copper pipes connected with solder made of lead, which was common before 1987. Solder can be used anywhere in the house, from fixtures to service lines.
• Brass faucets and faucet parts, such as fittings and valves. Fixtures installed before 2014 are likely to contain some lead, even if they have a chrome finish.

Basic Information About Lead in Drinking Water 

Lead is a naturally occurring element found in small amounts in the earth’s crust. While it has some beneficial uses, it can be toxic to humans and animals, causing health efforts. Lead can be found in all parts of our environment – the air, the soil, the water, and even inside our homes. Lead and lead compounds have been used in a wide variety of products found in and around our homes, including paint, ceramics, pipes and plumbing materials, solders, gasoline, batteries, ammunition and cosmetics.  

For more information, click here to read about lead in drinking water from the EPA. 

There are a few immediate steps you can take to minimize exposure to lead in drinking water.

• Use a filter certified to remove lead to NSF Standard 53 for drinking, cooking and making infant formula.
• Use only cold water for cooking and drinking. Boiling the water does not remove lead and hot water often contains higher levels of lead than cold water.
• If water has not been used in the home for a few hours, such as first thing in the morning or when getting home from work, run the water for five minutes to flush your interior plumbing before drinking or cooking.
• Regularly clean your faucet’s screen (also known as an aerator).
• Replace pre-2014 faucets with new “lead-free” options.

If you are looking for all sources of lead exposure in your home, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s website.  

According to EPA, exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems or exacerbate existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these adverse health effects. Adults can have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney, or nervous system problems.

Upon request the city will make reasonable accommodations for alternative access to documents on this page. Submit the request here or call 303-762-2300.