Raleigh citizens can breathe a little easier when it comes to what's coming out of their taps. Starting on Wednesday, new EPA standards for lead and copper contamination in public water systems will take effect, and according to a recent announcement, Raleigh Water has already aligned its practices with the forthcoming regulations. Thanks to these new rules, there should be a drop in the chances of contamination and a proactive strategy in place for replacing lead service lines.
The City of Raleigh's water department isn't just sitting back and waiting for the other shoe to drop. They've stepped up their game by optimizing their corrosion control program, which, thanks to particular pH adjustments and the addition of specific compounds, reduces potential lead contamination — a problem that generally comes more from household plumbing than the main water source.
As a precaution, residents are still advised to let their tap water run for at least 30 seconds to flush out water that may have been sitting in pipes for extended periods. The City of Raleigh isn't just tossing out advice; they're putting their money where their mouth is. They routinely test the water, ensuring it continues to meet safety standards and has no known lead service lines.
For those looking to double-check the water flowing through their own homes, Raleigh Water is offering free lead test kits. Customers can snag a kit through this link on the City of Raleigh website, or by reaching out via phone or email — no stings attached. Additionally, Raleigh residents can now use the leadCAST portal to check whether the service lines to their property are flagged for containing lead materials. It’s an online tool that highlights if the service line material on your property has been identified.
