Is There Lead In Fort Worth Pipes?

Concerns about lead in drinking water have gained national attention over the years, leaving many homeowners wondering if their health is at risk. In Fort Worth, recent efforts by the city to inventory water service lines have brought the topic closer to home.

It’s essential for homeowners to understand the facts about lead pipes, potential risks and how to protect their families. At Service Squad Plumbing, we’re here to help shed some light on the topic of lead in our city’s pipes.

Why Is Lead In Water Concerning?

Lead in drinking water poses significant health risks, especially for children and pregnant women. Exposure to even small amounts of lead can result in developmental delays, behavioral issues and damage to the nervous system. In adults, prolonged exposure may contribute to kidney problems and hypertension, among other impacts.

The issue is particularly alarming because lead is odorless, tasteless and invisible in water. That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed about water quality and take proactive steps to prevent exposure.

What Do We Know About Fort Worth’s Water Quality?

The city of Fort Worth’s water quality is a priority for local officials. Fortunately, water leaving the treatment plant is tested to ensure it meets strict safety standards. According to recent reports, there are no lead service lines in the city’s water mains or treatment facilities. Any concerns about lead typically stem from household plumbing systems, particularly in homes built before 1970.

For example, galvanized pipes were popular in the 1960s, and they could result in lead problems in the present day. To address this, Fort Worth is alerting people with pipes classified as “galvanized requiring replacement.”

Signs Your Water May Need Testing for Lead

Lead cannot be directly detected by sight, smell or taste, but certain conditions in your plumbing system may suggest the need for testing. These include:

• Metallic taste or smell in your water, which may result from pipe corrosion.
• Discolored water, often yellow or brown, which can indicate aging or corroded pipes.
• Unexplained health issues, such as developmental delays or high blood pressure, after prolonged water exposure (consult a doctor for diagnosis).

While these signs don’t confirm the presence of lead, they signal a potential problem with your plumbing that warrants immediate testing and inspection.

What Should Homeowners Do If They’re Concerned?

If you’re worried about potential lead exposure, take these steps:

1. Check Fort Worth’s interactive map — This tool helps you identify if your home’s service lines are classified as “galvanized requiring replacement.”
2. Request a lead test — Fort Worth Water offers free tests to qualifying residents to ensure their home’s water is safe.
3. Run your water before use — If water has been sitting in pipes for a long time, let the faucet run for a few minutes to flush out potential contaminants. This won’t completely remove lead, but can lessen its extent.
4. Install a water filter — Look for filters certified to remove lead, ensuring additional protection for your family.

How Service Squad Plumbing Can Help Homeowners In Fort Worth

At Service Squad Plumbing, we understand how crucial it is for Fort Worth homeowners to feel confident in their water quality. Our team specializes in pipe inspections, repairs and replacements, including addressing concerns with galvanized pipes. Whether you need a thorough inspection or a complete pipe replacement, we’re here to help.

Our experts will assess your plumbing system and guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your home’s water is safe and lead-free.

Final Thoughts For Fort Worth Homeowners

While the City of Fort Worth’s water quality is generally safe, older service lines can still pose risks. Understanding these risks and staying proactive with testing and inspections is key to protecting your family.

If you’re a homeowner in Fort Worth with concerns about your pipes or water quality, Service Squad Plumbing is here to assist. Contact us today to schedule a plumbing inspection and take the first step toward peace of mind.