AKRON CITY PWS Lead Service Line Inventory
Akron City PWS serves about 280,000 people in Ohio. Like many older water systems across the country, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main in the street to homes. If you're wondering whether your home might have one, here's what you need to know.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is a pipe made partly or entirely of lead that carries water from the public water main into your home. Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into drinking water, especially in older homes or when water is more acidic. These lines were commonly installed before the 1980s, when lead was not yet banned for this purpose.
What does Akron City PWS know about its lead service lines?
Akron City PWS is required by federal law to inventory its lead service lines and make that information public. The utility has not yet reported a completed inventory to the EPA. This means the system is still in the process of identifying which properties have lead lines, or the data is not yet publicly available.
You can contact the utility directly to ask:
- Whether your specific address has a known lead service line
- When they expect to complete their full inventory
- Whether they have a replacement program or timeline
What should you do right now?
If you live in an older home or building, your water could be affected even without a confirmed lead service line. The EPA recommends testing your tap water if your home was built before 1986 or you're unsure about your service line material.
Contact information for Akron City PWS: Look up the utility's phone number and website through the Ohio EPA drinking water database or call your local health department.
Next steps for residents
- Ask your utility whether your address is on the inventory and whether your line is confirmed lead, galvanized, copper, or unknown
- Request a free or subsidized test of your tap water through your utility or local health department
- For health concerns, contact your doctor or the CDC's lead health information line (1-800-CDC-INFO)
- Check for funding — your utility may offer rebates or grants for lead line replacement under recent federal programs
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact Akron City PWS directly with your address—they maintain the inventory. You can also have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home, though this requires some digging. A water test won't tell you if the line is lead, but it will show whether lead is in your drinking water.
Is lead in my water dangerous?
Lead exposure is especially risky for children under 6 and pregnant people. For health questions specific to your situation, talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO. The only way to know your actual exposure is to test your tap water.
Can I replace my lead service line myself?
No. Lead line replacement must be done by a licensed plumber and may require utility coordination and permits. Akron City PWS can tell you about any replacement programs or financial assistance they offer.
What should I do while I wait for the inventory to be complete?
Test your tap water through your utility or local health department. Use a water filter certified for lead if you're concerned. Flush your tap for 30 seconds before drinking if water has sat in the pipes overnight.