Monday, May 20th, 2024

Worried about your lead pipes? The City of Cincinnati may be able to help.

If you’re a homeowner in Cincinnati, it’s important to know if you have lead in your pipes. If so, what you can do about it. While lead pipes were once a common feature in residential plumbing systems, they have been phased out in newer constructions. In older homes, however, lead pipes may still be lurking within the walls, and that presents a potential health hazard.

Cincinnati’s lead pipe replacement law

Two years ago, Cincinnati took a proactive stance on addressing the issue of lead plumbing pipes. The City passed a law requiring the replacement of all lead pipes in homes. This landmark legislation aims to protect residents from exposure to lead, a toxic metal that can leach into drinking water and pose serious health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women.

The city’s initiative highlights the importance of identifying and replacing lead pipes to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. Lead exposure can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including neurological and developmental disorders, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. By eliminating lead pipes from residential plumbing systems, Cincinnati is taking a significant step towards safeguarding public health and ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water for all residents.

Identifying lead plumbing pipes

Identifying lead plumbing pipes can be challenging, as they are often hidden behind walls or buried underground. However, there are some indicators that may suggest the presence of lead pipes in your home. 

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Your home’s age

Homes built before the 1950s are more likely to have lead plumbing pipes, as lead was a commonly used material for water supply lines until its health hazards became widely recognized.

A visual inspection

If you have access to your home’s plumbing pipes, visually inspecting them can provide clues about their composition. Lead pipes are dull gray and may have a soft, malleable texture compared to other materials like copper or galvanized steel.

Water testing

Conducting water testing is the most reliable method for identifying lead contamination in your drinking water. You can contact the Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) for a free test kit. 

How to get help for lead pipes

If you suspect that your Cincinnati home may have lead plumbing pipes, don’t wait to take action. The city’s lead pipe replacement law aims to assist homeowners in addressing this issue by providing resources and support for pipe replacement efforts. Here’s how you can get started:

Contact the city

Reach out to GCWW to inquire about the lead pipe replacement program and eligibility criteria for participation.

Look for more assistance

Investigate available funding options. Grants, or incentives offered by the city or state to offset the costs of lead pipe replacement. These programs may provide financial assistance or low-interest loans to eligible homeowners.

Call a plumber

Hire licensed plumbers or contractors with experience in lead pipe replacement to assess your home’s plumbing system and develop a plan for replacement.

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Remember: Lead plumbing pipes pose a significant health risk to residents of older homes in Cincinnati. If you suspect that your home may have lead plumbing pipes, don’t hesitate to seek assistance and take action to ensure the safety of your drinking water. With the help from the city and plumbing professionals like the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter, you can make your home a healthier and safer place for you and your family.