Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Copper and Lead
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Copper and Lead
Lead is a naturally occurring metal that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
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Copper and Lead
Lead exposure can lead to health issues such as:
- Increases blood pressure in adults
- Developmental delays in infants and young children
- Reduced attention span, hearing, and learning abilities in children
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Copper and Lead
Lead is rarely present in source or treated water. If found, it usually comes from the corrosion of pipes, fixtures, and plumbing materials. Factors like mineral content, water movement, pH, and temperature affect how much lead may dissolve into the water.
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Copper and Lead
High-risk homes include those with:
- Lead service lines
- Copper pipes with lead solder built before 1988
- Lead pipes
- Older brass fixtures may contain lead
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Copper and Lead
Lead cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled, so testing is the only way to confirm its presence in water. Brownwood residents at risk can have their drinking water tested. For more information, call 325-646-6000.
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Copper and Lead
If your service line is suspected to contain lead, copper, or galvanized steel, you'll receive a certified letter with further details. You can also contact a licensed plumber to assess or work on your plumbing. Brownwood residents at risk of lead exposure can have their water tested.
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Copper and Lead
Lead exposure is most often from old lead-based paint, banned in homes since 1978. It can also be present in household plumbing and water service lines. The EPA estimates 10-20% of lead exposure may come from drinking water.