Sunday, October 28, 2007

Brass pipes are made of lead

Chrome-plated faucets are generally made of brass, which contains 3 to 8 percent lead. Contamination can occur when water comes in contact with these fixtures. The pH (acidity or alkalinity) of the water affects how easily lead dissolves from pipes, solder, or fixtures into the water. Corrosive water (which has a very high or very low pH) can dissolve lead from the supply pipes, faucets, or solder and flux used to connect copper pipes. Water can be tested to determine whether it is corrosive. Soft (water with a low mineral content), acidic water readily dissolves lead from the pipes or solder of household water systems.

http://www.grayenvironmental.com/lead_in_drinking_water.htm

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