Is South Bend's water corrosive to lead pipes?
The water itself is not corrosive to lead pipes. Lead testing has been done on water from hundreds of homes in the city since 1992. This testing as well as other water quality parameter testing has shown that South Bend's water is not corrosive, which means it should not cause metals from pipes to enter the water under normal use. However, it is important to know that things within your home and your water use habits can have an effect on your water quality.
If I have lead plumbing, what can I do to minimize my risk of having lead in my water?
Always use cold water for drinking and cooking. Hot water is more likely to have lead than cold water.
- Avoid drinking softened water. Metals from your pipes are more likely to dissolve into soft water than into hard water.
- Allow the cold water to run for at least 30 seconds before using if it has been sitting in the pipes for several hours. To conserve water, keep the flushed water for watering plants or doing dishes. You can also fill pitchers with fresh water to avoid flushing every day.
- Remove and clean your faucet aerators/screens on a regular basis to remove any particles that may have come from your pipes. While the aerator is off, flush the cold water for 3 to 5 minutes.
How can I get my water tested for lead?
If you are a South Bend Water Works customer, the City will test your water free of charge. Email waterquality@southbendin.gov or call 311 to request a lead test kit. We will drop off the kit with instructions at your home and come back to pick it up once you let us know that you have sampled.
How do I get more information about lead in drinking water?
View the Homeowner's Guide to Managing Lead in Drinking Water.
For information from the Environmental Protection Agency, click here.
For additional questions, call 311 or email waterquality@southbendin.gov.