Lead in Water: What You Need to Know

Take the next step
Additional Support
What to Expect at Your Culligan Water Test and Consultation
Discover More
Updated: February 24, 2023 July 21, 2016
In the wake of Flint, Michigan’s water crisis, lead contamination has been in the headlines, affecting drinking water in schools and homes across the United States, from New York to Oregon.
Lead Is a Silent Threat
Lead contamination in water can often go unnoticed, since it’s virtually undetectable – it doesn’t give off any odor, taste, or visual hints. Typically, lead exposure comes from aging pipes and plumbing infrastructure that have not been updated and eventually become corroded, leaching the harmful substance into water.
Health Effects of Lead Exposure
No amount of lead in drinking water is considered safe. Because lead is a toxic metal, it can be harmful to your health, even if exposure is minimal. The most vulnerable to lead exposure are young children and infants. While a small amount of lead exposure may have little effect on an adult, that same dose could significantly affect a child.
Lead exposure in a young child can cause:
In an adult, lead exposure can cause:
Facing Potential Lead Contamination
If you suspect your water is contaminated with lead, stop using it immediately and switch to bottled water for drinking and cooking. The only way to confirm lead contamination is with a water test. Your local Culligan Expert can sample your home’s water and send it off to our IL- EPA-certified lab for testing. You’ll have results within the week and your Culligan Man can help find a solution to treat any lead or other contaminants.
Get better water in your home by scheduling an appointment with your local Culligan Water Expert.
Be prepared - review these important tips to navigate an emergency that could impact your water.
Here are a few approaches that work — and a few that don’t.
With any of our soft water systems, get more out of your water-using appliances while spending less on energy and detergent.
See Water Softeners
There’s never been a better time to enjoy the convenience of scheduled bottled water deliveries from the Culligan® Water Experts
See Water Delivery Options
Culligan’s water filtration systems have improved water quality for thousands of families worldwide.
See Water Filtration Systems