Lead Service Lines in PAW WATRES

PAW WATRES serves about 52,000 people in Pennsylvania. Like many water systems across the US, it uses water mains made of different materials—some of which may include lead.

What is a lead service line?

A service line is the pipe that connects the public water main (buried under the street) to your home. If it's made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap.

Lead service lines were commonly installed before the 1980s. If your house was built or connected to water before then, there's a possibility yours could contain lead.

What does PAW WATRES know about lead pipes?

PAW WATRES has not yet reported detailed inventory data to the state. This means the utility either hasn't completed a full count of its service lines, or the results aren't yet public.

This is not unusual—many smaller water systems are still in the early stages of documenting their pipes. Federal law now requires all utilities to complete and share this information, so expect updates over the coming months and years.

How do I know if my home has a lead service line?

The only way to be sure is to check your own property. Here's what to look for:

• At your meter or where the line enters your home: Look for a dull gray pipe (not shiny copper or steel). A magnet will not stick to lead.
• Dig a small section (if you're willing): Gently scrape the pipe with a coin. Lead scratches easily, revealing a shiny gray mark underneath.
• Call a plumber: They can inspect your line for a modest fee.

You can also contact PAW WATRES directly and ask if they have any records about your property.

What should I do if I think I have lead pipes?

If you have a lead service line or are unsure:

• Use a water filter certified for lead (NSF/ANSI Standard 53) on taps where you drink or cook.
• Let water run for 30 seconds before using it, especially in the morning.
• Flush your kettle and pitcher regularly.
• Have your water tested by a lab. Your utility can recommend one, or contact your state health department.

If children under 6 or pregnant people live in your home, talk to a pediatrician or OB-GYN about testing.

Next steps for residents

• Contact PAW WATRES directly to ask if they have records of your service line material
• Inspect your own line if possible, or hire a plumber to do so
• Use a lead-certified filter on drinking and cooking water while you investigate
• Ask your utility when their complete lead service line inventory will be available

```json [ { "q": "How do I know if my water has lead?", "a": "Lead has no taste, smell, or color. The only way to know is to have your water tested by a certified lab. Contact PAW WATRES to ask about testing services in your area. If you have a lead service line or galvanized pipes, the risk is higher." }, { "q": "Is lead in drinking water dangerous?", "a": "Lead can harm brain development in young children, even at low levels. Adults and children can develop high blood pressure and kidney damage. Talk to your doctor or pediatrician about your specific situation and whether testing is right for you." }, { "q": "Can I remove a lead service line myself?", "a": "No—this requires a licensed plumber and must be done carefully to avoid contaminating your soil. Contact PAW WATRES to ask about rebates or funding programs that may help cover replacement costs." }, { "q": "Do water filters remove lead?", "a": "Some do, but not all. Look for filters certified NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58 for lead removal. Replace