New recommendations for residential drinking water filtration systems have been released for lead service lines. The Bismarck water treatment plant provides this new information to inform residents about steps they can take if their home has a lead service line. The drinking water that leaves the Bismarck water treatment plant does not contain lead. Potential lead levels in drinking water are linked to homes constructed, typically before the 1940s, with a lead service line. The city provides corrosion control in the water system to keep levels in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. However, EPA recommends lead levels of 0 mg/L as a goal, and this goal may not be obtainable if you have a lead service line.
In Bismarck, there are 19,515 residential connections and at this point we know of 46 lead service lines from our contacts with residents. Of the homes the city sampled, the city is in compliance with the requirements; however, zero lead levels are desired. If you have a home constructed prior to the 1940s and would like to know more, the first step is to identify if you have a lead service line. You can work with a plumber or call Bismarck Public Works at 355-1700 to schedule a visit from our Field Service Representative to confirm if you have a lead service line.
If you have a lead service line, you have several options on how you may want to proceed. Work with a lab to test your lead levels, review the recommendations on filters, install a certified filter on the tap you use for drinking and cooking, and replacement of your lead service line with financial assistance through the city lead service line replacement policy are all options homeowners can consider.
There are several labs available for testing water samples. Three in our area include Minnesota Valley Testing Laboratory (701-258-9720), North Dakota Department of Health (701-328-6140), and Energy Labs (800-735-4489).
NSF International, a public health and safety organization that tests and certifies residential drinking water filtration systems, has confirmed three water filters currently certified for lead reduction. Here are the links to verify each certification: Brita Faucet Filter System SAFF-100, PUR Faucet Water Filter System and the ZeroWater® 23-Cup Dispenser.
For the city lead service policy and more information visit Lead Service Lines