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Lead service lines in Kent, OH

24 water utilities serve Kent, with approximately 312,199 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 Kent, OH

What you need to know

The Kent area is served by 24 water systems. The largest is Akron City PWS, which serves about 280,000 people, followed by Kent City PWS with about 29,662 residents. The remaining systems are smaller, serving workplaces, golf clubs, and mobile home parks.

Currently, there are no confirmed lead service lines reported in the Kent area's inventory data. However, this doesn't mean lead pipes don't exist—it means data is either not yet available or lines have been identified as something other than lead (such as galvanized steel, which can also pose risks).

Why this matters

Lead service lines are pipes that connect your home to the water main in the street. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a higher chance your connection contains lead. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water sits in pipes overnight or if the water is corrosive. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development and learning.

How to find out about your home

Your water utility keeps records of service line materials. Contact your local water department directly and ask:

  • What material connects your home to the water main?
  • When was your service line installed?
  • Do they have a map or inventory you can check?

If you're in Kent City's service area, start with Kent City PWS. If you're served by Akron City PWS, contact Akron directly.

What to do if you have a lead line

If your service line is confirmed as lead, the EPA recommends having it replaced. This is typically the homeowner's responsibility, though some utilities offer rebates or cost-sharing programs. In the meantime, you can reduce exposure by:

  • Flushing your tap for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (longer if water has sat overnight)
  • Using cold water for drinking and cooking—hot water leaches more lead
  • Installing a certified lead filter (NSF/ANSI Standard 53)

If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or doctor about testing.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility (Kent City PWS or Akron City PWS, depending on your address) and ask about your service line material.
  • Visit the EPA's lead page for more information on testing and filters.
  • If you suspect lead exposure, consult your pediatrician or call your local health department.
  • Check for lead paint and plumbing fixtures too—service lines aren't the only source.

Utilities serving Kent

Common questions

Does Kent OH have lead in the water?

No confirmed lead service lines are currently reported in Kent's water system inventory data. However, data gaps exist, and homes built before the 1980s are at higher risk. Contact your water utility to find out what material serves your home.

How do I know if my water line is lead?

Call your water utility (Kent City PWS or Akron City PWS) and ask what material connects your home to the street. They maintain service line records and can tell you the installation date and material type.

Is it safe to drink water from a lead service line?

Lead can leach into water, especially if water sits in pipes or is corrosive. Flushing your tap for 30 seconds, using cold water, and installing a certified NSF 53 filter can reduce exposure while you arrange replacement.

What should I do if I have a lead service line?

Have it replaced—this is typically the homeowner's responsibility. Ask your utility about rebate programs or cost-sharing. In the meantime, flush taps, use cold water, and consider a certified lead filter.