Lead or Galvanized Pipes in Your Home?

Raleigh Water Is Here to Support You

Identifying lead in your plumbing or galvanized service lines in your home is the first and most important step toward a healthier home. Learn how to check your pipe type.

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1. Immediate Actions You Can Take

While we work on long-term solutions, you can significantly reduce any potential lead exposure with these simple daily habits:

Flush Your Pipes: If water hasn't been used for more than 6 hours, run the cold water for 3 to 5 minutes before drinking or cooking. This flushes out water that has been sitting in the service line.
Use Cold Water Only: Always use the cold water tap for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula. Hot water is more likely to dissolve minerals from plumbing.
Clean Your Aerator: Every few months, unscrew the small screen (aerator) at the tip of your faucet and rinse out any trapped sediment.

2. Get a Free Water Test Kit

Learn more about Raleigh's free lead testing kits.

3. Consider a Certified Filter

If you choose to use a water filter, ensure it is specifically certified to remove lead. Look for the NSF/ANSI Standard 53 mark on the packaging of pitchers, faucet mounts, or under-sink systems.

To request a kit, call 919-996-4420 or email watersamples@raleighnc.gov.