March 11, 2022
What is lead?
Lead is a harmful substance that can cause adverse health affects if ingested. It can harm people of all ages but is especially dangerous to pregnant women, unborn babies and children. If lead is ingested it will collect in the body as the substance doesn't break down, meaning even small quantities could lead to health problems.
Where does lead come from?
Lead can come from various sources. Some of these sources include old paint and tapware or plumbing materials that supply water. Lead can be introduced to the body through food, water and air and if absorbed can cause lead poisoning.
How does lead contaminate water?
Water can be contaminated with lead when plumbing materials containing lead corrode, especially in areas that have high acidic water/low mineral levels as this can cause pipes or tapware to corrode. Plumbing fixtures, lead pipes and tapware tend to be the most common sources for lead contamination in water.
Homes that have lead pipes connecting to the water supply are normally the main cause of lead contaminated drinking water. Lead pipes are usually located in older homes built before the 1980's. In homes that don't have lead pipes, the most frequent source is brass tapware/valves and plumbing that has lead-based solder.
If you are unsure whether your water contains lead you can always get your water tested and seek advice from a plumber.
Where can you find lead free tapware?
Various brands have started offering tapware ranges that are lead free. Most tapware that is made from 304 or 316 grade stainless steel is lead free as they do not contain brass materials - if you are unsure we always recommend checking with your supplier prior to purchasing. However, some brands like The Watermark Collection and Methven use a lead free brass to manufacture their tapware ranges which is also a safe alternative to stainless steel.
Our lead free ranges include the following:
July 21, 2022
June 17, 2022
January 21, 2022
