Lead Service Lines in Merrick, NY
Merrick has 13 public water systems serving 372,680 people. Across these systems, 221 lead service lines have been identified, with 26 additional lines of unknown material. No galvanized pipes requiring replacement have been found.
The largest systems are Liberty Utilities New York–Lynbrook (serving 220,000 people, 17 known lead lines) and Liberty Utilities New York–Merrick (serving 135,000 people, 17 known lead lines). Smaller systems like Mount Ebo WS and Wild Oaks Water Company also have identified lead lines.
What is a lead service line?
A service line connects your home to the public water main buried in the street. If yours is lead, water can pick up lead as it travels from the main into your house. Lead is a toxic metal that poses particular risk to young children and pregnant people.
Most lead service lines in the US were installed before 1980, though some exist in newer homes. They look like dull gray metal and are flexible (not rigid like copper).
Does Merrick have a replacement program?
New York State requires water utilities to replace known lead service lines. The timeline and cost-sharing depend on your water system. Contact your utility directly to ask:
- Whether a lead line has been confirmed at your address
- The replacement timeline
- Whether the utility covers costs, and what you might owe
How to find your utility
Use the EPA's water system finder (epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water) or search "water utility [your Merrick address]" to locate your provider. Once you know which system serves you, call their customer service line to request a service line inspection.
Should I be concerned?
Lead in drinking water is a real health risk, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. But you can reduce exposure right now:
- Use cold water for drinking, cooking, and baby formula (hot water leaches more lead)
- Let the tap run 30 seconds before using water that's been sitting overnight
- Consider a pitcher filter or faucet filter certified for lead removal (look for NSF/ANSI 53)
If you have health concerns, talk to your doctor or contact the CDC at cdc.gov/nceh/lead.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility with your address to ask if a lead service line is present at your property.
- Request a free inspection if you don't know your line's material.
- Ask about replacement costs and timelines—NY law requires utilities to replace known lead lines.
- Use the interim protection steps above (cold water, flushing, filtering) while awaiting replacement or confirmation that your line is safe.
```json [ { "q": "How do I know if I have a lead service line in Merrick?", "a": "Contact your water utility with your address. They can tell you if a lead line has been confirmed at your property or arrange a free inspection. You can find your utility using the EPA's water system finder or by searching online for your Merrick address." }, { "q": "Is the water in Merrick safe to drink?", "a": "Merrick's water meets federal safety standards. However, 221 known lead service lines exist across the area's systems. If you have a lead line, the water itself is treated safely—but it can pick up lead as it travels through the line into your home." }, { "q": "What should I do if I have a lead service line?", "a": "Replacement is the only permanent fix. New York law requires utilities to replace known lead lines. Contact your utility about the timeline and costs. In the meantime, use cold water for drinking and cooking, let water run for 30 seconds if it's been sitting, and consider using a certified lead filter." }, { "q": "Who