Protecting Your Water with Lead Filtration Systems

 

By: Taya Fontenette, Policy and Research Coordinator

When it comes to protecting your drinking water against harmful lead contaminants, choosing the right filtration system is important for ensuring your household's health and well-being. Deciding between these options depends on your specific needs, space availability, and filtration preferences. Regular filter replacement every few months is essential to maintain peak performance and ensure continued protection against contaminants for every filter system. While filters offer convenience, it's essential to recognize that full lead service line replacement is the most effective long-term option for preventing lead exposure.

While this list of filters is not exhaustive, it serves a starting point for exploring low-cost protection options.

NSF Certification

Be aware that not all water treatment devices remove lead. When selecting a water filter, look for the National Sanitation Foundation International (NSF) logo on the packaging. The NSF certification assures consumers that the filter has undergone rigorous testing and meets strict standards for quality and safety. Not all water treatment devices remove lead. Filters certified as NSF Standard 53 are specifically certified to reduce lead, guaranteeing effective reduction in your water.

At-Home Testing

The Safe Home DIY Lead in Drinking Water Test Kit (Amazon) is an easy-to-use home testing solution designed to detect lead in drinking water, with a detection limit as low as 5 parts per billion (ppb). This kit helps homeowners quickly check their water for lead presence, providing an accessible way to ensure drinking water safety.

 

Choosing the Right Filter

Each filter type has different uses and benefits. Here are some pointers to help choose:

Faucet Filters

Faucet filters screw directly onto the end of your faucet, providing reliable filtration. Before purchasing a faucet filter, it's essential to ensure compatibility with your faucet's size and design. Most faucet filters come with adapters or universal fittings to accommodate different types of faucets.





 

Pitcher Filters

Pitcher filters offer a convenient and portable solution for filtering drinking water. These filters are ideal for households looking for an easy-to-use filtration option without the need for installation or plumbing modifications. Pitcher filters effectively remove some lead contaminants from drinking water but are not certified to eliminate all traces, especially at high levels.

 

Under the Sink Filters

Under-the-sink filters are installed in the plumbing under your sink, providing a durable and long-lasting filtration solution. It is important to ensure proper installation, consider consulting a professional for assistance if needed.

 

Resources

 
Water CollaborativeLead Awareness, Resources