The most common source is corrosion of pipes and plumbing fixtures which contain lead. There have been drive-in recent years to reduce lead components in tapware and use alternative pipe materials, so this is more common in older houses.

The only sure way is to have the water tested.

It is more common for people to have lead detected in their bodies, then check if their drinking water is a source of contamination.

Lead accumulates in the soft tissues and bones. It is more readily absorbed by children than adults and causes more toxic effects.

In children, low levels of exposure have been linked to damage to the central and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing, and impaired formation and function of blood cells.

Lead is also more dangerous for pregnant women because it can cross the placenta to the fetus, it can cause premature birth and reduced growth. When the baby is born it can be transmitted through breast milk.

In adults, the effects are less severe, but still undesirable. Its effects can include increased blood pressure, decreased kidney function and reproductive problems in both men and women.

It is recommended firstly that some water is flushed from taps in the house to flush any that may have dissolved from plumbing out before drinking.

If you have tested high levels of lead, it is best to find the source and remove it.

For peace of mind, and trace amounts carbon filters will remove these. Please contact us for details it can cause premature birth and reduced growth. When the baby is born it can be transmitted through breast milk.

In adults, the effects are less severe, but still undesirable. Its effects can include increased blood pressure, decreased kidney function and reproductive problems in both men and women.