Overview
On January 4, 2014, Federal Law mandated the wetted surface of every pipe, fixture, and fitting sold for or installed in potable water applications not contain more than 0.25% lead by weight. Below are some details of the law:
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Modified the "Safe Drinking Water Act" of 1974 (amended by "Lead Contamination Control Act" of 1988) to re-define "Lead-Free*" regarding pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings and fixtures.
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Re-defines "Lead-Free*" to mean: (1) not containing more than 0.2% lead in solder and flux; (2) not more than a weighted average of 0.25% lead in wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe and plumbing fittings and fixtures.
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Exempts use or sale of lead pipes, solder, and flux in pipes or plumbing fittings or fixtures used exclusively for non-potable services.
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Establishes formula for calculating weighted average lead content.
Legal Implications
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States responsible for enforcement through state or local plumbing codes or other appropriate means.
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Illegal to introduce into commerce or install any potable water product that does not comply.
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Non-compliance may result in fines, installed product removal costs, lawsuits by private parties or government agency.
Product Availability
Due to manufacturer changes, product availability is changing daily. Many non-lead-free products will be discontinued and new lead-free product introduced with new or different part numbers. Many valves and parts will be phased out and completely discontinued
without a lead-free alternative offered. During this transition time, some items may be backordered or have limited quantity available, you will be contacted immediately if an item ordered is not in stock.
Q & A
Find out more by following the link to the EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) Ground Water and Drinking Water webpage.
EPA Website