If your home or business premises were built before 1970, there’s a good chance that your water is supplied using lead pipes. There are certain measures that can be taken to reduce contamination from lead pipes. Whether you have concerns about your existing pipework or you are moving to an older property, it’s worth replacing lead pipes with plastic alternatives.
Although water companies carry out thousands of safety tests each year on the main water supply network, this does not cover your property. The main ‘service pipe’ or ‘communication line’ is the one in the street that connects to the stop valve outside your building. The pipework entering your building from the stop valve is known as the ‘external water supply pipe’ and this is your responsibility. Therefore, it’s worth checking if any pipework within your property is made from lead.
Why are there lead pipes for drinking water?
In many areas of the UK, the use of lead pipes for water supply in and out of both domestic and commercial properties is still very common. Historically, lead was a popular metal used for water pipes due to its malleability. However, due to the fact that lead is a soft metal, it has a tendency to leach out and contaminate the surrounding environment.
Health problems associated with lead water pipes
Lead exposure can be harmful. In adults, it can result in organ damage, particularly to the heart, kidneys and circulatory health. It’s especially harmful to pregnant women, unborn babies and infants, as it can seriously affect children’s mental development. If you’re pregnant or have young children, the Department of Health recommends that you should try to reduce lead levels as much as possible. Lead has been linked to a variety of behavioural issues.
To reduce the risk of lead pipes contamination, call our experts today for industry-leading guidance and solutions.
Common problems with lead pipes
Lead within pipes can dissolve into the water supply. The level of contamination will vary and depends on various factors. Standing water within the pipe, the condition of the pipework, water hardness and the water temperature can affect lead concentrations.
To check if you have lead pipes, look at the pipework connected to your stop tap. Lead pipes are often a dull grey with a swollen joint adjacent to the tap. If you scrape this gently with a coin and the surface becomes shiny and silver, this is likely to be lead.
If you believe you have lead water pipes, always run the tap for a while especially in the mornings to clear any standing water.
Lead pipe replacements
Our team can help you to significantly reduce the lead content from your water supply to make it safer. By installing a new plastic pipe, we will help you to improve the water flow too. We offer a full lead water pipe replacement service for both domestic and commercial customers.
It’s important to use a qualified plumber to replace your lead pipes, especially one that is accredited to work on the main water supply network. We are approved by Severn Trent and we are also accredited with WaterSafe. Our fully trained team are insured to repair and replace lead pipes.
If you need lead pipe replacement, then our team can help.
Contact us today for more information.
