Lead Service Lines in Litchfield, New Hampshire
What you need to know
Litchfield water system serves about 7,000 people in New Hampshire. Like many older water systems across the US, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to homes built before the 1980s.
A lead service line is the most common source of lead in drinking water. Water can pick up lead as it sits in these pipes, especially if your water is slightly acidic or has low mineral content. Even "low levels" of lead exposure can affect children's learning and behavior over time.
Litchfield's inventory status
Litchfield has not yet completed an inventory of its lead service lines. The utility has not reported how many service lines exist in the system, which ones are lead, galvanized (which may contain lead), or non-lead, or when an inventory will be finished.
This doesn't mean your water is unsafe—it means the utility hasn't yet done the inspection work required to know the full picture. New Hampshire and federal law require all water systems to develop a lead service line inventory and replacement plan.
What should I do?
Contact your water utility directly for the most current information about your specific address. Litchfield's water department can tell you:
- Whether your service line is known to be lead, galvanized, or something else
- What steps the utility is taking to complete its inventory
- Any available water testing programs
- Treatment options if you're concerned about lead
If you have young children or are pregnant, the CDC recommends having your water tested if you don't know your service line material.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Litchfield water department to ask about your service line and request a free test kit if available
- Use only cold water for drinking and cooking until you know your service line status (hot water leaches more lead)
- If concerned about health, speak with your pediatrician or contact your local health department
- Check back here for updates as Litchfield completes its inventory
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Litchfield have lead in the water?
Lead in drinking water usually comes from lead service lines or household plumbing, not from the water source itself. Litchfield hasn't yet inventoried which homes have lead service lines. Contact your water utility to find out if your address is affected.
How do I know if my service line is lead?
Litchfield water department can check your address records or send someone to inspect the line where it enters your home. You can also request a free water test from your utility or a certified lab.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Litchfield?
Litchfield's water meets federal safety standards. However, if you have a lead service line or old lead plumbing, running cold tap water a few seconds before drinking can help flush lead out. For young children, ask your utility about testing.
When will Litchfield finish its lead service line inventory?
Litchfield hasn't yet reported a timeline. Contact the utility directly to ask when they expect to complete the inventory and replacement plan required by law.