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Lead service lines in Bessemer, AL

4 water utilities serve Bessemer, with approximately 125,417 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
0
Galvanized
0
Unknown
0
% unknown
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Lead service lines in Bessemer, AL

Bessemer's water systems serve about 125,000 people across four utilities. Based on available inventory data, none of these systems have reported known lead service lines to the EPA. However, unknown or undocumented connections may still exist, especially in older neighborhoods.

What you need to know

Lead service lines are pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street into your home. If your line is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels through the pipe—especially in older homes, after construction work, or if your water is corrosive.

The largest utility in Bessemer is Bessemer Water Service, which serves about 86,000 residents (PWSID: AL0000737). Warrior River Water Authority serves roughly 38,700 people. Two smaller systems also operate in the area.

What "unknown" means

When inventories show "unknown," it doesn't mean lead is definitely present. It means the water system hasn't yet confirmed what material your service line is made of. Many older records were never digitized, and some homes haven't been inspected yet. This is common nationwide.

Finding out if you have a lead service line

Contact your water utility directly—they may have records of your service line material. Bessemer Water Service and Warrior River Water Authority can tell you what they know about your specific address. If records are unavailable, a licensed plumber can inspect the line where it enters your home (usually in the basement or crawl space).

Lead is a soft, dull gray metal that can be scraped with a coin. Plumbers use simple tests to identify lead service lines.

What to do if you have lead

If your service line is lead or unknown, use cold tap water for drinking and cooking (lead leaches more readily from hot water). Run the tap for 30 seconds before collecting water if it's been sitting unused for more than a few hours. Contact your utility about replacement programs or financial assistance—many states and utilities offer rebates or free or low-cost replacement.

Next steps for residents

  • Call your water utility and ask about your service line material (see contact info below)
  • If you're unsure, consider having a plumber inspect it
  • For health concerns, especially if you have young children, contact your pediatrician or the CDC
  • Ask your utility about lead service line replacement programs and funding

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Utilities serving Bessemer

Common questions

How do I know if I have a lead service line in Bessemer?

Contact Bessemer Water Service or Warrior River Water Authority with your address—they may have records. A licensed plumber can also inspect where your service line enters your home. Lead is soft, dull gray metal that can be scratched with a coin.

Is lead in Bessemer water a common problem?

Lead service lines are more common in older cities, but Bessemer's water systems have not reported known lead lines in their inventories. That said, unknown connections may still exist, especially in homes built before 1950.

What should I do right now if I'm worried about lead?

Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking, and run the tap for 30 seconds if water has been sitting unused for hours. Contact your water utility to learn what they know about your service line. If you have young children, discuss testing with your pediatrician.

Can Bessemer help me replace a lead service line?

Ask your water utility—Bessemer Water Service and Warrior River Water Authority may have replacement programs, rebates, or financial assistance available.