Lead is not naturally present in drinking water. When water leaves our treatment plants, it is completely free of lead. However, lead can enter drinking water through the corrosion of plumbing fixtures, faucets, and pipes.
To ensure high-quality water, the Spalding County Water Authority regularly tests for lead in our source water and publishes the results annually in our Consumer Confidence Report. We fully comply with the Lead and Copper Rule and have consistently had no violations related to lead with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).
To prevent pipe corrosion, which can introduce lead into the water, the Spalding County Water Authority adds a polyphosphate containing phosphoric acid (the same ingredient found in soda) at our water plants. This creates a protective coating inside the pipes, helping to prevent corrosion.
Given the age of the Spalding County Water Distribution system, it contains no lead pipes. Our system is primarily composed of ductile iron, PVC, concrete, and 0.9% of other materials like polypropylene, copper, cast iron, or asbestos cement.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates lead in drinking water through the Lead and Copper Rule, which mandates sampling at customer taps that have lead or galvanized service lines, or copper pipes with lead solder.
The Safe Drinking Water Act banned the use of lead in plumbing in 1986. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead solder, pipes, and fixtures.
For homes built before 1986 in Spalding County with known solder fittings made of 50% lead/50% tin, these properties are regularly tested.
Protecting against lead in drinking water is a shared responsibility between the Spalding County Water Authority and property owners. In compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule, the Spalding County Water Authority is currently creating an inventory of all water distribution and service lines. The service line is the pipe that delivers drinking water from the main line to your home. This database will be available for public viewing by the deadline of October 16, 2024.
Ensuring the safety of drinking water for our residents remains our top priority.
How do I know if I have inside or outside my home?
EPA.GOV - Protect Your Tap -Quick Check
Is there lead in my water?
EPA.GOV - Information about lead in drinking water
How do I test for lead in my water?
EPA.GOV - Protect Your Tap - A quick check for lead
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