The FACTS about Lead in Water
Lead does not occur naturally in drinking water. When the water leaves our treatment plants, it does not contain lead. Lead can be found in drinking water primarily through the corrosion of plumbing fixtures, faucets, and pipes.
Your Water
As part of ensuring excellent water quality, the Henry County Water Authority tests for lead in our source water and we report our findings annually in our Consumer Confidence Report. We meet all requirements under the Lead and Copper Rule and have not had any violations with EPD for lead in our water.
To prevent corrosion of the pipe which can cause lead in water, Henry County Water Authority adds a polyphosphate that contains phosphoric acid (same thing put in soda) at the water plants. This process creates a protective coating on the inside of the pipes and prevents corrosion.
Due to the age of the Henry County Water Distribution system, it does not contain any lead pipe. Our system is made up of ductile iron, PVC, concrete and .9% of polypropylene, copper, cast iron or asbestos cement.
Current Regulations – Lead and Copper Rule
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates lead in drinking water through the Lead and Copper Rule. It requires sampling at the customer’s tap who have lead and galvanized service lines or copper with lead solder.
The Safe Drinking Water Act banned the use of lead in 1986. Homes built prior to 1986 are more likely to have lead solder, pipes and fixtures.
For homes built prior to 1986 in Henry County with known solder fittings made up of 50% lead/50% tin, these properties are sampled regularly.
How to Protect from Lead
It is the shared responsibility of Henry County Water Authority and property owners to protect from lead in drinking water. As required by the Lead and Copper Rule, Henry County Water Authority is in the process of creating an inventory of all of our water distribution lines and service lines. The service line is the pipe that brings drinking water from the main into your home. This database will be available for the public to view by the deadline of October 16, 2024.
As always, it is our priority to ensure the safety of drinking water for our residents.
How do I know if I have lead pipes inside or outside my home?
EPA.GOV - Protect Your Tap - Quick Check
Is there lead in my water?
EPA.GOV - Information about lead in drinking water
How do I test for lead in my water?