From source to tap, the City of Savannah performs tests throughout the system each day to ensure that your drinking water meets all state and federal requirements. While lead is a common, naturally occurring metal found in the environment, it seldom occurs naturally in water supplies. Lead enters drinking water primarily as a result of the corrosion or wearing away of materials containing lead that are in plumbing.

1. No detectible lead. There is no detectable lead in Savannah’s sources of water – the Savannah River and the Floridan Aquifer.
2. Lead solder was banned in 1985. Lead in drinking water is almost always associated with the corrosion of lead-containing plumbing fixtures and solder used in constructing homes, businesses, and schools. Plumbing installed in homes from 1970 to 1985, and water standing in lead-containing faucets are the most likely causes of high levels of lead in drinking water.
3. Savannah uses ductile iron and pvc pipe in our distribution system. The majority of Savannah’s water mains are made of ductile iron with a concrete lining and polyvinyl chloride (pvc). Plumbing for homes, businesses, and schools varies but in newer construction it is made of pvc, galvanized steel, or copper with a minimal lead content.
4. Savannah tests for lead in drinking water. The Georgia Department of Environmental Protection requires Savannah to test lead levels every three years. When we test for lead, Savannah draws water samples from customers’ faucets in neighborhoods throughout our service area. We only have to test every three years because of the continuous low levels detected in our water.
5. Savannah keeps customers informed. We believe that the customer has the right to know if there is a problem with our drinking water or if we violate any drinking water standard. Savannah has a proven track record of keeping customers informed on water issues.

More questions? Visit the Lead Free Savannah page for helpful information!