Do you trust the water coming out of your tap to be safe to drink? Did you know that old pipes, hidden leaks, or poor water quality can put your family’s health at risk?
Here in Maryland, most homes were built long before today’s plumbing standards. That means lead pipes, rusty fixtures, and old systems aren’t uncommon. Add in our hot, humid summers, which create perfect conditions for mold, and it’s easy to see why plumbing safety should stay on every homeowner’s list.
As local Frederick MD plumbers, we want your family to have peace of mind with knowing your water and plumbing are safe. Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest plumbing-related health issues associated with plumbing and what you can do to protect your home.
Lead Pipes: Why They’re Still a Concern
Lead pipes were common in old homes and can still be seen in some Maryland neighborhoods. Even if your house doesn’t have visible lead pipes, old fixtures and solder from decades ago may still retain lead. The risk? Lead can seep into your drinking water and can create serious health issues, especially for children and pregnant women.
The Maryland Department of the Environment provides guidance on how to detect lead in plumbing, and the EPA explains the risks it causes. If you suspect that your home may have lead pipes or fittings, have your water tested. We can assist you in determining if replacement or treatment is needed to protect your family.
What you can do:
- Test your water through a certified lab.
- Flush taps for 30–60 seconds before drinking or cooking.
- Use filters that are certified for lead removal.
- Replace the old plumbing if lead is found.
Water Quality Issues You Might Overlook
Even if lead isn’t present in your water, water quality can still be a problem. Minerals, bacteria, or contaminants from old pipes can change how your water tastes, odor, and even the effect of your water on appliances. Poor water quality isn’t just inconvenient; it can affect health over time.
Clean water is a building block of global public health, and Maryland households are no different. If you notice unusual odors, discoloration, or metallic taste, our Frederick MD plumbers can help identify the cause and suggest filtration systems tailored to your home’s needs.
What you can do:
- Review your utility’s annual Consumer Confidence Report.
- Test your well water annually if you have a private well.
- Install a filtration system designed for your water source.
Mold Risks from Plumbing Leaks
Maryland’s warm, humid climate creates mold growth a year-round risk, especially when plumbing leaks go unnoticed. A small drip under the counter or a slow leak behind a wall may not seem urgent, but moisture is all mold needs to spread.
Mold can ruin walls and floors, but worse, it can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions. The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service explains that water safety and sanitation go hand in hand with family health. That means making your plumbing leak-free to keep mold from thriving indoors.
Daily or weekly inspection under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater will make it easier to detect leaks early. If you find damp areas or smell musty, it would be best to call a plumber before mold has a chance to grow.
What you can do:
- Inspect under sinks and around plumbing fixtures for moisture.
- Look for musty odors, bubbling paint, or discoloration.
- Repair leaks quickly to avoid both property damage and health risks.
How to Protect Your Drinking Water
Clean drinking water starts with prevention. Here are a few steps every Maryland homeowner can take:
- Test your water if your home was built before 1986 or if you’re unsure about your plumbing materials.
- Replace old fixtures or pipes that may contain lead or corrosion.
- Install filtration systems suited to your water quality needs.
- Fix leaks promptly to reduce mold risks and water damage.
- Schedule the plumbing inspections to catch small issues before they become big repairs.
When in doubt, remember, you don’t need to handle plumbing safety by yourself. Our team at Putman Plumbing is here to guide you through testing, repairs, and long-term solutions.
Keeping Your Family Safe Starts Here
Your house should be the one place where you never have to wonder if your water is safe. By staying informed about plumbing-related health issues and not hesitating on potential problems, you can keep your family and your property safe.
If you’re worried about your water quality, think you may have a hidden leak, or just want the peace of mind that comes with a healthy plumbing system, reach out to us today. We’ll help you keep your home safe, healthy, and comfortable for many years to come.