Lead Service Lines in PA AMER WATER CO NEW CASTLE

Pennsylvania American Water Company's New Castle division serves about 43,279 people. Like many older water systems across the country, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the public water main.

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the underground pipe that brings water from the public water main into your home. If your house was built before the 1980s, there's a meaningful chance your service line contains lead. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water sits in pipes overnight or if the water is acidic.

What does this water system know?

PA AMER WATER CO NEW CASTLE has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its service area. Without this data, neither the utility nor homeowners have a complete picture of where lead pipes exist. The utility is required by federal law to identify and replace lead service lines, but the process takes time—especially in larger systems.

How can you find out if you have a lead service line?

Start by contacting your water utility directly. You can ask:

• Does the utility have records of your service line material?
• If not, can they perform a visual inspection or simple test?
• What is their timeline for lead line replacement?

Pennsylvania American Water Company's customer service team can help you access your account records and explain your options.

You can also hire a licensed plumber to inspect your service line or have it tested for lead. This typically costs $100–$300.

What should you do right now?

While waiting for your utility to complete its inventory or for a service line replacement, you can take steps to reduce lead exposure:

• Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if water has sat in pipes for several hours.
• Use cold water for drinking and cooking (hot water leaches more lead).
• If you have young children or are pregnant, consider having your water tested by a certified lab.

For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.

Next steps for residents

• Call PA AMER WATER CO NEW CASTLE to ask about your service line material and replacement timelines.
• Hire a licensed plumber for inspection if the utility cannot confirm your line is lead-free.
• Use interim protection steps (flushing, cold water use) until you know your service line status or it's replaced.
• Check with Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection for utility contact information and state-level lead guidance.

How do I know if I have a lead service line?

Contact PA AMER WATER CO NEW CASTLE directly—they may have records of your service line material. If not, a licensed plumber can inspect it visually or test it. Homes built before the 1980s are at higher risk.

Is lead in water dangerous?

Lead exposure can harm brain development in children and affect adults' blood pressure and kidney function. Even small amounts matter. Talk to your pediatrician or doctor about testing if you're concerned.

What can I do if I have a lead service line?

Ask your utility about replacement programs or timelines. Until it's replaced, run cold water before drinking, use cold water for cooking, and consider installing a certified filter. Contact the utility for specific guidance.

Is the water system required to replace lead lines?

Yes, federal law requires utilities to identify and replace lead service lines, but the timeline depends on the system's size and resources. Contact PA AMER WATER CO NEW CASTLE to ask about their replacement schedule.