Lead Service Lines in Redmond, WA
Redmond's water systems serve about 176,000 people through 7 different utilities. Right now, there's no publicly reported data on how many lead service lines exist in the area—and that's actually common. Many water systems across the country haven't finished mapping their lead pipes yet.
What you need to know
Lead service lines are pipes that carry water from the water main (under the street) into your home. If your line is lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap—especially if the water is corrosive or if pipes are old and corroded.
The good news: lead in water is preventable. Even if you have a lead line, steps like running your tap before drinking and using a certified filter can reduce exposure. The best permanent fix is replacing the lead line, which some utilities help pay for.
The main utilities serving Redmond:
- Redmond Water System (City of Redmond) serves about 163,000 people. No lead service line counts have been reported yet.
- Union Hill Water Association serves roughly 8,700 people.
- Ames Lake Water Association serves about 3,200 people.
- Three smaller systems also operate in the area.
How to find out if your line is lead
Contact your water utility directly—they're required to know this information or be in the process of finding out. Provide your service address. They may have records, or they can advise you on next steps, including whether they offer free or subsidized testing.
If your utility can't confirm your pipe material, you can hire a licensed plumber to check, or use a magnet test (a simple DIY check: if a magnet sticks to the pipe, it's not lead).
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility and ask about your service line material. Use the utility name and contact info above.
- Ask about testing and any assistance programs for lead line replacement.
- In the meantime, run your tap 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, and use a pitcher filter certified for lead if recommended by your utility.
- Check the CDC website for more on reducing lead exposure at home.