Lead in Danbury: What To Know

At Culligan, we understand the importance of clean, safe water for your family. In Danbury, Connecticut, lead contamination has become a significant concern for residents, particularly due to aging infrastructure. If you’re wondering how lead might be affecting your home and what you can do about it, this guide will provide answers and solutions.

Why Lead is Dangerous

Lead is a toxic metal that can have serious health impacts. It was commonly used in paint, plumbing materials, and other building products until it was banned in 1978. Today, aging systems in homes and city water supplies are often the culprits for lead contamination.

Health Risks of Lead:

• Reduced IQ and learning disabilities in children
• Behavioral problems and developmental delays
• Kidney damage and high blood pressure in adults

Children are especially vulnerable because their growing bodies absorb lead more easily, and their developing brains and nervous systems are highly sensitive to its effects.

Lead in Danbury: Where Is It Coming From?

In Danbury, lead contamination is primarily linked to:

1. Old Paint: Many homes built before 1978 still have lead-based paint. Over time, this paint can peel, crack, or turn into dust, which poses a health risk when inhaled or ingested.
2. Lead Pipes and Plumbing: Older water service lines in Danbury may contain lead. These pipes can corrode over time, releasing lead into the drinking water supply. The city is working to replace these lines, but the process is ongoing.

How Danbury is Addressing Lead

Local and statewide efforts are underway to reduce lead exposure and protect residents:

Danbury’s “Get the Lead Out” Program

The City of Danbury has launched an initiative to identify and replace lead service lines in its water system. Residents are encouraged to report the type of material used in their water service lines to help speed up the replacement process.

Statewide Lead-Free CT Initiative

Connecticut’s Department of Public Health has introduced programs to reduce lead hazards in homes, schools, and communities. This initiative focuses on eliminating lead risks at the source, with funding available for homeowners to make their properties safer.

How Culligan Can Help Protect Your Home

At Culligan, we’re here to help you ensure your water is free from harmful contaminants like lead. While city programs are addressing public infrastructure, you can take proactive steps to protect your family at home.

Testing Your Water for Lead

If you’re unsure whether lead is in your water, a professional water test is the first step. Culligan offers comprehensive water testing services to detect lead and other contaminants in your supply.

Installing a Whole-Home Filtration System

Culligan’s advanced filtration systems are designed to remove lead and other harmful substances from your water. Our systems:

• Provide cleaner, safer water for drinking, cooking, and bathing
• Reduce other contaminants, such as chlorine and bacteria
• Are customized to meet your home’s unique water needs

Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Systems

For an extra layer of protection, consider a Culligan Reverse Osmosis (RO) system. These systems are highly effective at removing lead, ensuring every glass of water your family drinks is safe and pure.

 

What You Can Do Today

In addition to considering a Culligan system, here are steps you can take to reduce lead exposure in your home:

1. Inspect Your Plumbing: Check for old lead pipes or fixtures. Replace them if possible.
2. Flush Your Taps: Run cold water for a few minutes before use, especially if the water has been sitting in pipes for hours.
3. Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the City of Danbury’s “Get the Lead Out” program and take advantage of available resources.
4. Test Your Water: Reach out to Culligan for a professional water test to know exactly what’s in your water.

Your Partner in Water Safety

Lead contamination is a serious issue, but with the right solutions, you can protect your home and family. Culligan is committed to providing Danbury residents with clean, safe water through advanced testing and filtration technology.

 

Contact your local Culligan expert today to schedule a free water consultation.