- When will testing commence?
June 2023
- I have lead pipes and have installed a water softener/ purifier in my home, will I still be able to participate in the study?
No, the softener will interfere with results. Therefore your residence will not be eligible to participate in the study.
- If my home is determined to have high levels of lead and/or copper, will the ECWA replace my lines?
No, the homeowner is responsible for replacing the service line from the curb box into the home and the homeowner is responsible for the replacement of all internal plumbing. What ECWA will do is provide educational material on minimizing your exposure to lead.
- What is the purpose of the EPA and ECWA performing this study?
The study is performed regularly to protect the public health by minimizing lead and copper levels in drinking water, primarily by reducing water corrosivity. Lead and Copper enter drinking water mainly from corrosion of lead and copper containing plumbing materials.
- Is there any cost to me?
No, there is no cost to the consumer.
- How long will the test take me to perform?
The test will take approximately 5 – 10 minutes. This includes filling a one liter plastic sample bottle, completing a chain of custody form, contacting the lab to pick up the bottle, and setting it outside of your front door.
- What are the risks of being exposed to lead?
Exposure to lead can result in damage to the brain, red blood cells and kidneys, especially for young children and pregnant women.
- What are the risks of being exposed to copper?
Exposure to copper can cause stomach and intestinal distress, liver or kidney damage and complications of Wilson's disease in genetically predisposed people.
- What is Wilson's disease?
Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder in which copper builds up in the body. Symptoms are typically related to the brain and liver. Liver related symptoms include vomiting, weakness, fluid buildup in the abdomen, swelling of the legs, yellowish skin, and itchiness.
- Where can I get additional information on this study and exposure to lead from drinking water?
Safe Drinking Water Hotline 1-800- 426-4791 http://water.epa.gov/drink
- How soon will I get my results?
Results will be sent to your home in letter format within 30 days of the ECWA receiving the laboratory analysis.
The ECWA also publicizes the results, specifically, the range, and averages of values in their Annual Water Quality Report (AWQR). Individual residences' results are not identified in the AWQR.
- Who will see my home's results?
Your results will be made available to you, ECWA, the Erie County and NYS Health Departments and the EPA.
- What is corrosion control?
Corrosion control is the addition of chemical(s) added to the drinking water at the water treatment plant prior to the water entering the distribution system. The chemical adjusts the pH of the water to a level that minimizes corrosion, and subsequent release of metals from the interior of pipe walls.
- How many homes participate in the study?
EPA mandates we test a minimum of 50 single family residences.
- If I have a home built between 1983-1986, which has copper with lead solder only, am I really at risk for exposure to lead?
Yes, enough lead may leach from the solder to induce health effects, especially in young children.
- Is it true, brass plumbing fixtures contain lead?
Yes, metal alloys fixtures such as brass do contain lead.
- What are the limits set by the EPA for lead and copper in drinking water?
The EPA establishes an action level (AL) of 0.015mg/L for lead and 1.3 mg/L for copper based on 90th percentile level of tap water samples. An AL exceedance is not a violation but it can trigger other requirements that include water quality parameter monitoring, corrosion control treatment, source water monitoring/treatment, public education, and lead service line replacement.
