Raleigh Water has confirmed that its tap water meets Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for lead and copper. The utility recently tested samples from 72 homes in its service area, finding lead levels between less than three to four parts per billion (ppb), well below the EPA’s action level of 15 ppb. Copper levels ranged from 0.01 to 0.08 parts per million (ppm), also under the EPA’s threshold of 1.3 ppm.
“Raleigh Water customers can trust that their tap water meets rigorous Environmental Protection Agency standards, including regulations aimed at reducing lead and copper contamination in public water systems,” a statement from Raleigh Water reads.
The utility reports it has no known lead service lines within its system. Most homes served by Raleigh Water were built after 1987, when the use of lead in plumbing was banned. Despite this, free testing for lead in drinking water is available to all utility customers regardless of their home’s age.
Since 2014, only four samples out of thousands tested have exceeded the EPA’s action level for lead, which is defined as the concentration threshold for harmful substances requiring corrective action.
Raleigh Water is actively working to identify and map all service lines to comply with EPA requirements. Its corrosion control program includes pH adjustments and specialized compounds to prevent metals from leaching into the water supply. Regular testing is conducted to monitor contaminants.
According to Raleigh Water, “The primary source of lead and copper in tap water is the customer’s plumbing. Older infrastructure, including lead service lines or lead solder in copper pipes, can cause lead to leach into the water through corrosion.”
The utility notes that letting water stand unused in pipes can increase lead concentrations, particularly overnight or over weekends. Elevated levels pose health risks, especially for pregnant women and young children.
Customers may request a free kit to test their drinking water for lead. Due to high demand, there is currently a backlog; kits are expected to arrive within five to ten business days after request, with results available about two weeks after sample collection.
To reduce exposure risk at home, Raleigh Water recommends running cold water for five minutes before use if it has been sitting unused for more than six hours; using only cold water for drinking or cooking; considering NSF-certified filters; and regularly cleaning faucet screens.
“By taking these proactive measures, Raleigh Water is committed to providing safe, high-quality water for our community,” according to the statement.
For further information on reducing exposure or obtaining a test kit, customers can consult Raleigh Water’s online resources or view guidance videos provided by the EPA.
