Lead Prevention Tips

Several precautions are taken to prevent lead from entering drinking water. At the filtration plant, water is treated to prevent lead particles from leaching into the water supply from lead pipes or old plumbing and fixtures.

The city's drinking water is tested annually for lead, and the results are available online. These tests consistently confirm that the lead levels in the city’s drinking water are within the allowable limits established by the State of Michigan and the federal government. 

Prevention is the best way to protect your family. Here are steps you can take to help minimize lead exposure from drinking water:

• Use cold water for drinking, cooking, making ice, beverages, and infant formula. Boiling water does not remove lead from water.
• Use a certified lead-reduction filter if you have a lead service line, lead or galvanized plumbing, or older faucets and fittings sold before 2014. Consider buying a filter that meets NSF/ANSI Standards 42 and 53. When using a filter, follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for maintenance and replacement.
• Keep your water moving if water has not been used for a few hours; run the kitchen or bathroom faucet for at least 5 minutes. You can also run the dishwasher, shower, or use a washing machine.
• Remove and clean faucet aerators every six months. Small particles may accumulate on the screens. Check out this video from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) on How to Clean Your Aerator.
• Hire a licensed plumber to help you identify the materials in your home plumbing system and inform you about alternative lead-free approved materials for your household plumbing. Visit www.epa.gov/water for more information about lead-free plumbing products.