High-Velocity Household and Service Line Flushing Following LSL Replacement

Customer exposure to lead solely from drinking water may be greater in water containing particles than in water containing only soluble lead. Full and partial lead service line (LSL) replacements and other similar disturbances can potentially increase the release of lead-containing particulates. Lead-containing particles, loose scale, and other debris that can otherwise be transported to the customer tap can be removed by preventive measures like home water filters. This study investigated the use of high-velocity flushing to preemptively dislodge and remove particulate lead following partial LSL replacements in order to at least reduce, and hopefully eliminate, the particles of lead reaching the consumer. Results suggest a potential benefit to flushing the service line and premise plumbing by opening taps inside the house but not from solely flushing the service line by opening hose bibs.