Lead Service Lines in AQUA ILLINOIS-CANDLEWICK DVN

AQUA ILLINOIS-CANDLEWICK DVN serves about 6,400 people in Illinois. Like many water systems, it may have lead service lines—pipes that connect the water main to homes. This page explains what we know about those lines and what you can do.

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the underground pipe running from the public water main (usually under the street) to your home's water meter. These lines were commonly installed before the 1980s because lead is easy to work with and was thought to be safe. We now know lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water is corrosive or sits in pipes overnight.

What we know about this water system

AQUA ILLINOIS-CANDLEWICK DVN has not yet completed a full inventory of its service lines. This means the utility hasn't surveyed its pipes to determine which ones contain lead, galvanized steel, or other materials. Without this data, neither you nor the utility can say for certain whether your home has a lead service line.

This is not unusual—many smaller utilities across the US are still working through inventories. However, the federal government now requires all water systems to complete this work.

How to find out if your line is lead

Start by contacting your water utility directly. Ask:

• "Do you have an inventory of service line materials for my address?"
• "Has my service line been tested or inspected?"
• "What year was my home connected to the water system?"

Homes built before 1980 are more likely to have lead lines, but age alone doesn't guarantee it. Your utility may have historical records or construction documents.

If your utility cannot confirm the material, you can request a non-invasive inspection or have a plumber check the line where it enters your home (it will look dull gray if it's lead).

If you find lead

Lead is a serious health risk, especially for children and pregnant people. If you learn or suspect you have a lead service line:

• Use cold water for drinking and cooking (hot water dissolves lead more easily)
• Let water run for 30 seconds before using it if it's been sitting overnight
• Consider a certified lead-removing water filter as a temporary measure
• Ask your utility about replacement programs or financial assistance

For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC's lead guidance at cdc.gov/niosh/topics/lead.

Next steps for residents

• Call your water utility and ask whether they have a service line inventory and what material serves your address.
• Ask about testing options if the material is unknown.
• Check EPA resources at epa.gov/lead for more information on lead in drinking water.
• Review your utility's lead service line replacement plan once it's available (required by federal rule).

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