Lead in residential plumbing is a serious health concern—especially for older homes in towns like Carbonado, Washington, where some water infrastructure may predate modern safety standards. If you’re living in or moving into an older Carbonado home, understanding whether lead is present in your pipes, fixtures, or solder is essential to protecting your family’s health.
In this blog, we’ll break down why lead pipes are dangerous, how to identify if your home has them, and what steps to take if you’re at risk.
🚨 Why Are Lead Pipes Dangerous?
Lead is a toxic metal that can be harmful to human health even at low exposure levels. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral content.
The effects of lead exposure include:
- Developmental delays in children
- Behavioral issues
- Damage to the brain and kidneys
- High blood pressure and fertility problems in adults
Unfortunately, lead has no taste or smell, which means homeowners won’t know it’s present unless testing is performed.
🏠 Is Your Carbonado Home at Risk?
Many homes built before 1986 used materials that could contain lead, especially:
- Lead service lines (the pipes that connect the house to the main water line)
- Brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures
- Copper pipes with lead-based solder
Carbonado is a historic town with properties dating back decades. If your home hasn’t had a recent plumbing overhaul, there’s a chance lead components may still exist in your system.
🔍 How to Check for Lead in Your Plumbing
Here are a few ways Carbonado homeowners can identify possible lead issues:
- Check the age of your home.
Homes built before 1986 are more likely to contain lead. - Inspect visible plumbing.
Lead pipes are usually dull gray and can be scratched easily with a key or coin. - Request water testing.
The EPA recommends testing your tap water to determine lead levels. You can contact Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department or a certified lab to schedule a water test. - Check for a lead service line.
Your utility provider or plumber can help determine whether your home is connected to a lead line from the street.
🧰 What to Do If You Suspect Lead in Your Home
If testing shows elevated levels of lead in your water, here’s what you can do:
✅ 1. Replace Lead Plumbing Components
Replacing lead pipes, solder, and fixtures is the most effective long-term solution. The experts at Einstein Pros Carbonado specialize in repiping and modern plumbing upgrades to ensure your water is safe and lead-free.
✅ 2. Install a Water Filter
Use an NSF-certified filter designed to remove lead. Be sure to maintain and replace filters regularly for effective protection.
✅ 3. Flush Your Pipes
Let the water run for several minutes before using it for drinking or cooking, especially if the water has been sitting in the pipes overnight.
✅ 4. Use Cold Water for Consumption
Hot water dissolves lead more quickly, so use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and especially for preparing baby formula.
🔁 When to Call a Professional
Lead pipe replacement is not a DIY job. It requires licensed professionals with knowledge of local codes and experience in working with old plumbing systems. At Einstein Pros Carbonado, our technicians offer full inspections, repiping services, and recommendations tailored to your home’s condition and your family’s safety.
👉 Learn more or schedule an inspection with Einstein Pros Carbonado Plumbing Services.
📝 Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait—Get Your Pipes Checked
Lead exposure through drinking water is entirely preventable, and early action can make all the difference. Whether you’re concerned about an older home or simply want peace of mind, checking for lead and upgrading your plumbing can protect your health and improve your home’s long-term value.
For trusted plumbing help in Carbonado, Einstein Pros is here to help you stay safe, lead-free, and informed.