What Color Is Lead in Water? Find Out Here!
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated: Jan 4, 2023
This page may contain affiliate links. If you buy a product or service through such a link we earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
For many years, lead was used in plumbing systems because it was thought to be safe and durable. But after research showed that lead could leach into water and cause health problems, it is no longer used in new construction.
However, lead pipes and solder are still found in many homes and buildings built before 1986, when Congress enacted a ban on lead pipes. When these materials corrode, they can release lead into the water.
This bears the question, what color is lead in water? Can you even see it? Let’s find out!
Contents
show
Key Takeaways
- Dissolved in water, lead is colorless (and odorless).
- The only indicator is if your water has a metallic taste. This may indicate corrosion in your plumbing system. If you have lead plumbing, the heavy metal may leach into your water.
- The best way to know if your water has lead is to have it tested.
What Color Is Lead in Water?
First things first; when dissolved in water, lead is colorless.
Lead is also odorless.
The only indicator is if your water has a metallic taste. This could mean that you’re dealing with corrosion in your plumbing system, which might add lead into your water.
However, in order to know for certain whether your water is contaminated, you will need to have it tested – ideally by a certified laboratory.
How Lead Gets into Water Supplies
Lead can enter the water through leaching from lead pipes, solder, or fixtures. Water flowing through these can dissolve small amounts of lead. This is especially true if the water is corrosive or has low mineral content because it can cause the pipes to deteriorate faster.
Private wells are also not regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so, although rare, they may contain higher levels of lead if they’re located in areas with high natural concentrations of lead in the soil or bedrock.
The Health Effects of Lead
Lead is a potent neurotoxin that can cause serious health problems if ingested.
According to EPA research, children are the most vulnerable because even low levels of lead exposure can cause IQ deficits, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.
In adults, lead exposure has been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure and kidney damage. For pregnant women, exposure to lead can cause premature births, low birth weights, and developmental problems in the baby.
Is There a Safe Level of Lead in Water?
Simply put, there is no safe level of lead in water when it comes to drinking. Lead is a toxic metal that is proven to cause serious health problems.
However, it is safe to shower or bathe in lead-contaminated water since the skin does not absorb lead. Such a scenario may be okay for adults, but when bathing infants or small children, take precautions to avoid them swallowing any water.
What You Can Do
If you suspect your water may be contaminated with lead, follow these important steps.
Have Your Water Tested
Because it is hard to determine whether lead is in your water just by looking at it (remember lead is colorless), the only way to know for sure is to have it tested by a professional. In general, it is good practice to arrange for water testing annually.
But you may have to test your water more frequently if:
- Your home was built before 1986 and has lead pipes or solder
- You live in an area with a known lead problem
- You use well water, which is more susceptible to contaminants
You can also purchase DIY kits that test for lead. However, these may not be as accurate as professional testing, and they may also not be able to detect any other contaminants in your water.
Replace Lead Pipes
If your water tests positive for lead and you have lead pipes, the best way to protect yourself and your family is to replace them. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it is the most effective way to remove lead from your water supply.
Modern homes typically use copper or PVC pipes.
Further Reading:
Install a Lead Water Filter
If you cannot afford or do not want to replace your lead pipes, another option is to install a lead water filter. These filters are designed to remove lead and other contaminants from your water before it reaches your water outlets.
There are many different types of lead filters on the market. Just remember to choose one certified or tested against NSF standards.
Flush
A quick fix for lead in water is to simply flush your pipes before using water for drinking or cooking. This will help to lower the concentration of contaminants that may have built up in the pipes.
To do this, simply turn on any of the cold water faucets in your home and let it run for up to several minutes. Take note that flushing does not guarantee lead will be completely removed from your water.
Use Cold Water Only
While waiting for your water to be treated, you can stick to using cold water in the meantime. This is because hot water is more likely to dissolve lead and other contaminants.
Stick to Bottled Water
If you are too concerned about lead in your drinking water, the safest option is to drink bottled water. This is not a long-term solution, but it can help protect you and your family until you can make changes to your plumbing system.
If you have any questions about the color of lead in water please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
Information provided on BOS is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.
We adhere to strict editorial guidelines. Rest assured, the opinions expressed have not been provided, reviewed, or otherwise endorsed by our partners – they are unbiased, independent, and the author’s alone. Our licensed experts fact-check all content for accuracy. It is accurate as of the date posted and to the best of our knowledge.