Guide: water quality
Lead Water Pipes in Older North York Homes
A share of older North York houses still draw water through lead. Here is how to check, what to do in the meantime and how replacement works.
- locate the spot the supply pipe comes in your basement, usually near the meter.
- Check the section ahead of the meter; lead there will be soft and a dull grey.
- Gently scratch it with a key. Lead shows a shiny silver colour.
- Test with a magnet. Magnets ignore lead and copper yet cling to galvanized steel.
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Who may have lead pipe
In Toronto, lead service pipes were commonly installed before the mid-1950s. Parts of North York that developed earlier, especially near Yonge Street and in some pockets of Armour Heights, Lansing and Downsview, may still have them. Homes built later are much less likely to, though some older solder and brass fittings contain lead.
How to check
- locate the spot the supply pipe comes in your basement, usually near the meter.
- Check the section ahead of the meter; lead there will be soft and a dull grey.
- Gently scratch it with a key. Lead shows a shiny silver colour.
- Test with a magnet. Magnets ignore lead and copper yet cling to galvanized steel.
Lead service often shows a rounded, bulb-like wipe joint where it meets to the valve. If you see one, assume lead until confirmed otherwise.
What to do in the meantime
- Run cold water for several minutes when it has been sitting overnight.
- Draw cold water, never hot, for anything you drink, cook with or mix into infant formula.
- Use a filter certified to reduce lead, and replace cartridges on time.
- Clean faucet aerators regularly.
Replacement
Replacing the service pipe on both sides of the property line removes the source. The city has run programs to replace its portion when owners replace theirs. Check current rules and coordinate timing. See lead pipe replacement and water line replacement.