AUBURN WATER DISTRICT Lead Service Line Inventory
Auburn Water District serves about 17,245 people in Maine. Like all US water systems, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—pipes that connect homes to the main water line and can leach lead into drinking water.
What we know about Auburn's lead service lines
Auburn Water District has not yet completed a comprehensive inventory of lead service lines in its service area. This is common: many water systems across the country are still in the early stages of mapping their pipes, and completion deadlines extend through 2024 and beyond under the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Revisions.
Without a finished inventory, the district cannot yet say how many lead service lines exist in the system or what percentage of homes are affected.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. Even "safe" water in the pipes can pick up lead as it sits in the line overnight or during low-use periods. If your home was built before 1986, or if you don't know your pipe material, there's a reasonable chance your service line contains lead or lead-bearing solder.
The good news: lead in water is preventable. Even with a lead service line, you can reduce exposure through flushing, using filters, and—for young children and pregnant people—using bottled water for drinking and cooking.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Auburn Water District directly to ask about your specific address and service line material. They should be able to tell you what's known about your property, even if the full inventory isn't complete.
- If your line is lead or unknown, use a pitcher or faucet filter certified to remove lead (look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification).
- Flush your cold-water tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes each morning before drinking or cooking to clear stagnant water from the line.
- Have children's blood lead levels tested if you're concerned about exposure. Your pediatrician or local health department can arrange this.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Auburn Water District have lead service lines?
Auburn Water District has not completed its inventory yet, so the exact number is unknown. However, given the district's age and service area, lead service lines are likely present in some homes. Contact the utility to learn about your specific address.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call Auburn Water District with your address—they should have records of your pipe material. If your home was built before 1986, it's more likely to have a lead line. You can also have a plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead can harm brain development in young children and raise blood pressure in adults. Even small amounts matter. If you're concerned about health effects, talk to your doctor or pediatrician, or contact your local health department.
What can I do right now if I have a lead service line?
Use a certified lead-removal filter on your drinking and cooking water, flush your tap each morning, and have children tested. Full replacement of the line is the permanent solution, but filters provide protection while you plan a replacement.