Reduce your lead exposure

Let the water run

Water is more likely to absorb the lead from your plumbing if it sits for several hours.

If you haven't run water through your faucet for several hours, you should:

• Let the cold-water faucet run until you feel that the water is as cold as it will get. 
• Run the water for 2 -3 minutes if you have a lead waterline.

Use cold water

Hot water dissolves lead faster than cold water.

• If you need hot water, heat it after it comes out of the faucet.
• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and baby formula.

When lead in water is not a concern

You do not have to worry about lead in water that you use to:

• Shower
• Flush the toilet
• Run your dishwasher
• Water plants