Lead in water

Water is not the most common source of lead in San Francisco.  The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission has past and on-going programs to ensure that our water is safe.

Complete a request form (Chinese, Filipino, Spanish) for a water test for $25. 

Lead found in San Francisco water probably comes from the faucets, other plumbing fixtures, and lead solder in the pipes inside.  Learn how you can reduce the lead from these sources (Chinese, Filipino, Spanish).

In addition, you can take these steps to reduce exposure:

• Flush the pipes in your home.  Let water run at least 30 seconds before using it for cooking, drinking, or baby formula.  If the water has not been used for 7 hours or longer, let the water run until it feels cold (1 to 5 minutes)
• Use only cold tap water for cooking, drinking, or baby formula.  If water needs to be heated, draw water from the cold water tap and heat on the stove or in a microwave oven.
• Care for your plumbing.  Periodically remove faucet strainers and run water for 3-5 minutes.  Consider replacing brass faucets bought before 20210 (but especially 1986).
• Consider using a water filter certified to remove lead.

Warning:  Some water crocks have lead.  Do you give your child water from a water crock unless you know the crock does not have lead.