Lead Service Lines in Monroe, NH
Monroe serves about 21,378 residents across 8 water systems. The largest is Aquarion Water/NH, which supplies roughly 18,950 people. Four smaller systems—Rosebrook Water, Abenaki Water/Lakeland, Monroe Water Department, and Abenaki Water/White Rock Water—serve the rest of the town.
What we know about lead in Monroe
Currently, no confirmed lead service lines have been reported across Monroe's water systems. However, the absence of reported data does not mean lead service lines don't exist—it often means utilities have not yet completed their inventories or assessments.
New Hampshire requires all water systems to identify lead service lines and report findings to the state. These inventories are still ongoing in many areas, so the picture may change as utilities complete their surveys.
What is a lead service line?
A service line is the pipe that carries water from the main water line under the street into your home. If that pipe was installed before the late 1980s, it may be made of lead. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if the water is acidic or if water sits in the pipes for hours.
How to find out about your home
Your water utility can tell you whether your home's service line is lead, galvanized (which can contain lead), or safe material like copper or plastic.
Contact your water provider directly:
- Aquarion Water/NH: The largest system serving Monroe
- Monroe Water Department: For residents in the smaller town-managed system
- Smaller utilities listed above for their respective service areas
Ask specifically: "Is my service line made of lead or galvanized steel?" They may already have records, or they may need to inspect your property.
If your service line is lead
Use water filters certified for lead removal (look for NSF 53 certification on point-of-use filters). Run cold water for 30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking. Never use hot tap water for drinking or cooking—hot water leaches lead faster.
For health concerns, especially if children or pregnant people live in your home, contact your pediatrician or the CDC for guidance.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility and ask about your service line material
- Request a free or subsidized inspection if available
- If lead is confirmed, install an NSF 53-certified filter and flush pipes before use
- Check the EPA's resources on lead in drinking water for more information