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Relocating to an Older Chicago Home? Test for Lead Pipes First

Three people inspecting a house before relocating to an older Chicago home.

If you’re relocating to an older Chicago home, the charm and historic appeal are likely major attractions. Yet, along with beautiful architecture and established neighborhoods, many older homes in Chicago come with aging infrastructure, including plumbing that may contain lead. This can pose health risks for residents, especially families with children. 

Before moving in, consider having the plumbing system tested for lead to ensure the safety of your drinking water. Here’s a guide to help you understand the risks of lead pipes, how to test for them, and what to do if your new home has them.

Choosing a Trustworthy Moving Company for a Safe and Smooth Transition

First off, when moving into an older home in Chicago, working with a professional moving company can streamline the process, especially if you’re coordinating plumbing inspections or pipe replacement. Golans Moving and Storage Chicago understands the unique needs of relocating within the city. They can help ensure a smooth, efficient move while you focus on settling into your new home safely. Their expertise in Chicago neighborhoods allows them to handle the logistics of moving to older properties, saving you time and stress.

Why Older Chicago Homes Might Have Lead Pipes

Lead pipes were once the standard for residential plumbing because of lead’s durability and malleability. Like many U.S. cities, Chicago utilized lead pipes extensively before the dangers of lead exposure were fully understood. In 1986, amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act officially banned the use of lead pipes in plumbing, but many homes built before this date still have lead components in their plumbing systems. 

Given that Chicago has one of the oldest water infrastructures in the country, relocating to an older Chicago home makes it likely that the property has lead pipes. Understanding these risks before moving in can help new homeowners make informed decisions about their health and home improvements.

Finding Local Support for Lead Testing and Safe Moving Practices

For those moving from nearby suburbs like Lincolnwood, Illinois, where homes are generally newer and less likely to have lead pipes, it’s easy to overlook this potential issue when relocating to an older Chicago home. However, moving experts in Lincolnwood are well-acquainted with the unique challenges of Chicago’s historic properties. 

Furthermore, they might even have a recommendation as to where you can start looking for local resources to help you with lead pipes. By working with experts familiar with the Chicago area, new homeowners can access valuable resources for safe lead testing and mitigation before fully settling into their homes.

Health Risks Associated with Lead in Drinking Water

Finding the right support is crucial, especially because exposure to lead from drinking water poses health risks particularly concerning for children and pregnant women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that lead exposure can affect almost every organ and system in the body, with the nervous system being especially vulnerable. 

In children, lead exposure can result in developmental delays, behavioral issues, and learning disabilities. Even low levels of lead exposure can have long-term health consequences. For adults, risks include high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive issues.

The unique problem with lead pipes is that lead can leach into water, especially if the water is acidic or if pipes are corroding. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established that there is no safe level of lead exposure, making it critical for those relocating to an older Chicago home to test their water and plumbing systems.

Signs Your Older Chicago Home Might Have Lead Pipes

Knowing the construction year of your home is the first indicator of potential lead plumbing. If your home was built before 1986 in Chicago, assuming it could contain lead pipes or lead soldering in the plumbing system is advisable. Some physical characteristics can help identify lead pipes:

  • Soft Metal: Lead is a soft metal, and you can often scratch it easily with a screwdriver or other sharp object
  • Grayish Color: Lead pipes tend to have a dull gray color, and they will not be magnetic
  • Bulbous Joints: Lead pipes often have bulbous or swollen joints due to how the lead was molded during installation

If you’re unsure how to identify lead pipes or suspect that your plumbing may contain lead but cannot confirm this, it’s best to consult a professional plumber or testing service.

How to Test for Lead in Your Home’s Water and Plumbing System

Several methods can be used to test for lead in an older Chicago home. Some homeowners choose to start with at-home lead testing kits, while others prefer hiring a professional for more accurate results.

At-Home Lead Testing Kits

These are available at most hardware stores and are relatively easy to use. Generally, you’ll collect water samples from various points in your home and send them to a lab for analysis. These kits may not be as comprehensive as professional testing, but they can give you an initial idea of whether lead is present.

Professional Water Testing Services

Professional testing services are more precise and can measure even low lead levels in your water. Many professional services will also test multiple points in your home to determine if lead comes from the main pipes or fixtures within the home. In Chicago, certified water testing companies are familiar with the city’s aging infrastructure.

City-Provided Lead Testing

Chicago offers free home lead testing kits, which you can request through the Chicago Department of Water Management. The department also provides additional resources and guidance on reducing lead exposure.

What to Do if Your Chicago Home Has Lead Pipes

Discovering lead pipes in an older Chicago home can be concerning, but there are several ways to address the issue and reduce exposure risks.

Consider Pipe Replacement

Replacing lead pipes entirely is the most effective way to eliminate the risk of lead exposure. Although this can be costly, some homeowners find the long-term health and safety benefits worthwhile. In Chicago, programs are available to help eligible residents reduce the cost of replacing lead service lines.

Install a Filtration System

Certified water filters can remove lead and other contaminants from drinking water. Look for filters certified by NSF International to effectively remove lead, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing filters regularly.

Flush Your Pipes

If full pipe replacement or filtration isn’t an immediate option, flushing your pipes is a simple way to reduce lead exposure. Let cold water run for a few minutes before using it for drinking or cooking, as lead concentrations are typically higher when water has been sitting in pipes.

Use Only Cold Water for Drinking and Cooking

Hot water can increase the likelihood of lead leaching, so it’s safer to use cold water for any consumption and heat it as needed.

Steps Chicago Is Taking to Address Lead in Water

In recent years, Chicago has taken steps to address the prevalence of lead pipes in its homes and water infrastructure. The city has introduced initiatives to make lead testing and lead pipe replacement more accessible. 

However, replacing all lead service lines is a long-term project that may take decades. Chicago residents can access free lead testing kits and may be eligible for partial reimbursement or lead service line replacement funding. Awareness and testing remain essential, especially for those moving into older homes where lead plumbing is more likely.

Final Thoughts on Relocating to an Older Chicago Home and Testing for Lead Pipes

Relocating to an older Chicago home can offer many benefits, but safety should be a top priority, especially when it comes to drinking water. Whether you choose to use a lead testing kit, hire a professional, or utilize Chicago’s resources, knowing if your home has lead pipes empowers you to make informed decisions. As you settle into your new home, taking proactive steps to safeguard your water supply will allow you to enjoy everything your Chicago home offers with peace of mind.

Uncovering the Silent Threat: The Hazards of Lead Pipes in Chicago’s Water Supply

The Hazards of Lead Pipes in Chicago's Water Supply

The Silent Danger Lurking in Chicago’s Water Supply

Chicago, known as the Windy City, is home to a vibrant population of over 2.7 million people. As these residents go about their daily lives, there is an invisible threat silently making its way into their homes – lead pipes.

Lead pipes are a common feature in many older cities across the United States, including Chicago. These pipes were widely used in the early 20th century due to their durability and affordability. However, the detrimental effects of lead on human health have long been known, and yet, thousands of Chicagoans continue to be exposed to this hazardous substance through their water supply.

The Lingering Dangers of Lead

Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health issues, especially in children and pregnant women. When lead pipes corrode over time, lead particles can leach into the water flowing through them. This contaminated water can then be consumed and absorbed by the human body, leading to health problems such as:

  • Developmental delays in children
  • Learning difficulties
  • Behavioral problems
  • Lowered IQ
  • Increased risk of hypertension
  • Kidney damage

Unfortunately, these health risks are often invisible and can take years to manifest, making the impact of lead exposure difficult to detect or link directly to water consumption.

chicago lead pipes.

Several factors contribute to the persistence of lead pipes in Chicago’s water supply. One key reason is the sheer age of the city’s infrastructure.

Unveiling the Scope of the Problem

While Chicago’s water supply is regulated and monitored to ensure public safety, the presence of lead pipes remains a significant concern. According to a recent report by the Chicago Tribune, an estimated 400,000 homes in the city still rely on lead service lines to deliver water.

Furthermore, the issue of lead contamination is not evenly distributed across the city. Low-income neighborhoods and communities of color tend to be disproportionately affected, exacerbating existing health disparities and inequalities.

A Deep Dive into the Causes

Several factors contribute to the persistence of lead pipes in Chicago’s water supply. One key reason is the sheer age of the city’s infrastructure. Many of the water systems were built decades ago, and replacing all the lead pipes is a monumental task that requires significant financial resources and coordination.

Another contributing factor is a lack of awareness among homeowners. Many residents are unaware that their homes contain lead pipes or that they can request a free water test kit from the city to assess the quality of their tap water.

Taking Action: Chicago’s Response

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, city authorities have taken steps to address the issue of lead pipes in Chicago’s water supply. The Chicago Department of Water Management has implemented a comprehensive plan to gradually replace all lead service lines across the city.

Additionally, the city has launched educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of lead exposure and the importance of getting water tested. These efforts aim to empower residents with knowledge and equip them with the tools to protect themselves and their families.

Your Role in Protecting Your Health

While the city is making strides towards eliminating lead pipes, individual actions are also crucial in safeguarding public health. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Get your water tested: Request a free water test kit from the city and have your tap water analyzed for lead. This will provide valuable insights into the safety of your water supply.
  • Use a water filter: Install a certified lead-filtering device on your faucet or use a filter pitcher to remove any potential lead particles from your drinking water.
  • Flush your taps: In the morning or after a period of non-use, run your taps for a few minutes to flush out any stagnant water that may have accumulated lead particles.
  • Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest information and updates from the city regarding lead water line replacement service initiatives and water quality.

A Collective Effort for a Safer Future

Eliminating lead pipes from Chicago’s water supply is a complex and ongoing process that requires the collaboration and commitment of multiple stakeholders – city officials, residents, and advocacy groups. By working together, we can ensure that access to clean and safe water is a fundamental right for all Chicagoans.

Let us not allow the silent threat of lead pipes to persist in our communities. Take action, spread awareness, and join the movement for a healthier, lead-free Chicago.