What Is the Best System for Removing Lead From Drinking Water?

Families must be able to trust municipal and household infrastructure to provide them with safe drinking water. However, old pipes and pollutants are everywhere, requiring people to get creative about removing dangerous contaminants. Lead is one of the most prominent. 

Fortunately, numerous organisations exist to replace inefficient machinery with purifying filtration technology to eliminate almost every trace of lead. Discover what companies to contact for the best results so you and your family can consume your water confidently. 

What Are the Different Types of Lead-Removal Systems?

Treatment professionals use several techniques to get lead out of water. Most think of filtration, but the most innovative providers offer even more advanced options. Industry professionals use:

• Reverse osmosis (RO): Uses pressure to push water and contaminants through a membrane
• Distillation: Transforms water into steam, leaving contaminants behind
• Activated carbon: Filters more effectively than other materials because of its pore size

Homeowners can get equipment using these technologies to provide extra peace of mind. Where should customers look for the most reputable products? Firstly, if you’re based in the US then these companies are worth looking into:

1. Long’s EcoWater Systems

Long’s EcoWater Systems has gone beyond standard filtration since 1949. Its tenure in the sector has made it an authority, helping households feel more confident about drinking their tap water. It has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a Neighborhood Favorite award from NextDoor, and a five-star rating with thousands of Google reviews. The team only uses certified, American-made products and methods to solve water-related problems, including outages and hard water issues. 

The treatment systems remove lead and other contaminants, such as hard-to-manage forever chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). You can see the insights in your hands with the EcoWater monitoring app. It reveals excess consumption, leaks and service reminders. Use the app to oversee Long’s state-of-the-art RO drinking-water system, which removes contaminants like lead two to three times more efficiently than competitors. 

One customer was happy to remove pesky contaminants, saying, “The valley has major water pollution issues and also really hard water. I wanted to make a long-term investment in the health of my family and the longevity of my appliances . . . Long’s Ecowater RO system removes the most contaminants including PFOS and PFAS and its water softeners are the most advanced and most durable. Excellent warranty.” 

Contact Long’s to receive a free water test in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania — it is the only EcoWater dealer in the area.

2. iSpring Water Systems

iSpring Water Systems has a treatment option for every dispenser in the home. Its products use a medley of techniques — including RO, filtration and more — which work effectively on well and municipal systems. The equipment can go under the sink, on the showerhead unit or be integrated into the entire home. While iSpring creates high-quality products, it does its due diligence by always recommending customers get a water test and consult with one of its many experts before making a purchase.

The company’s RO solution is multistage, progressively removing smaller particles until only pure water remains. In addition to removing lead, it also handles chemicals, calcium, benzene and arsenic. Households can save money during installation, as the company supplies plug-and-play filters perfect for any DIY enthusiast. The site has frequent sales, referral codes and discounts to make safe drinking water affordable. Many customers rave about the easy-to-use products, but they also praise iSpring’s customer service. 

One customer said, “I appreciate their honesty and excellent service of their products. I highly recommend iSpring for ongoing support should you need any. I don’t think you would because the filters are well manufactured but it’s still good to know that when you need a replacement for anything, the company will stand behind its products. Love it! More companies should treat their customers like this . . . Plus the water tastes so much more satisfying (with remineralisation) it’s hard to go back to generic water again taste-wise.”

3. SpringWell Water Filtration Systems

SpringWell Water Filtration Systems focuses on two primary objectives — softening and filtration. The team offers individual products or a combination system to tackle even the most finicky water supplies. It has two decades in the field, with a robust six-month money-back guarantee if households feel they are not getting the purest water. Its lead-removal techniques include RO, filtration and UV purification.

The lead and cyst removal system is one of the best options for concerned homeowners. It has a 100,000-gallon capacity with optional upgrades, including smart water monitors and sediment filters. Every component is certified for quality control, and valves and tanks have a lifetime warranty. The system removes 99.95% of lead for a competitive price. The products ship in a matter of days, and there are several financing options to fit any budget.

One shopper said, “I recently installed a Springwell whole-house water filtration system with the catalytic carbon and sediment filters, and the results have been outstanding. I purchased it to address the heavy chlorine and chemical treatment in my town’s water, which was damaging my plumbing and tasted terrible. The installation was easy, and within hours, the water tasted cleaner than most bottled water. Showers feel noticeably better, and my hair is softer and less dry — an unexpected but welcome bonus.”

4. US Water Systems

Often considered the provider of America’s best water test, US Water Systems also has powerful lead-removal technologies and many other next-generation purification and filtration products. It also offers whole-house filtration systems, UV disinfection and treatment for forever chemicals. Shoppers can browse based on their specific problems, leading them to the most relevant options in seconds.

The company’s Cobalt Hyper-Safe 5-Stage RO system is the recommended choice for lead. The system promises to waste 80% less water, work 75% faster and last 300% longer than competitors. The equipment also removes barium, bacteria, copper, chromium-6 and more with up to a 99.99% effectiveness. US Water provides extensive background information for customers before they buy, so they become lead experts before the product arrives. The company also has certified specialists on deck to live chat or call if homeowners have questions about its products, troubleshooting concerns or general inquiries. 

One reviewer suggested the team was especially helpful when they were considering upgrading, saying, “We have been a customer for years now. We have a reverse osmosis system and recently added a lime blaster and chlorine remover filter. We had an older filter housing for the lime blaster and they replaced it at no charge, [as] the filters had changed size. Plus we wanted to add a second filter for chlorine removal and they gave us a real big discount for the dual filter setup which is much easier to swap out than to use two single filter housings tied together with fittings.”

5. Sentry H2O

Proudly made in the U.S., Sentry H2O products produce alkaline, pure tap water. The company aims to balance pH, remove toxins and refine flavour for the healthiest drinking experience. Sentry has many educational resources to help shoppers understand the most dangerous threats to their drinking water. The organisation stands out because of its commitment to sustainability. It promises that the point-of-use systems do not waste water during filtration.

The team uses advanced filtration for lead removal for its first line of defense and ion exchangers and RO machines for further cleaning. Sentry has many filters to choose from to fit within a home’s chosen lead-removal system, including ones made with activated charcoal. Many are installable within 15 minutes, with no contractors or extra hands necessary. Sentry prioritises its customers, proving how much its team wants homes to have agency over water quality.

The company’s whole-house systems deliver many other benefits, including longer equipment lifespan and nourishing shower water that boosts hair and skin health. One consumer left high praise, saying, “I am very impressed with the whole house wellness system I had installed about a month or so ago. It gives me more [peace] of mind that I am helping my family be more healthy and get rid of the harmful contaminates in our water! Thank you!”

Is Lead in Drinking Water a Problem in the UK too?

While the companies listed earlier are based in the United States, lead in drinking water is also a concern in the UK, especially in older homes. Properties built before 1970 may still have lead pipes, solder or fittings. When water sits in these pipes, small amounts of lead can dissolve and enter the household supply, potentially posing a health risk.

Although UK water suppliers treat water to reduce its ability to absorb lead, this doesn’t always eliminate the problem, especially if the plumbing within a home still contains lead components. Lead is a toxic metal, and even low levels can be harmful over time, particularly for children, babies and pregnant individuals.

What Should You Do If You Live in the UK?

If you’re concerned about lead in your drinking water, here are the steps to take:

• Contact your water supplier – They can advise whether your property is at risk and may offer a free lead test.
  
• Arrange a professional or DIY water test – Private companies offer home testing kits or in-person services to check your water for lead.
  
• Inspect your pipework – Lead pipes are dull grey and easily scratched with a coin. If you suspect your home has them, contact a plumber or your local authority.
  
• Install a certified filter – Use filters that are proven to reduce lead, such as those with NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or BS EN 14652 certification. Brands like ZeroWater, Berkey, and Brita (select models) offer suitable filters in the UK.
  
• Consider reverse osmosis (RO) – RO systems are one of the most effective ways to remove lead and other contaminants. UK-based installers and online retailers offer RO units for kitchens and whole-house systems.
  
• Replace lead pipes – If lead pipes are confirmed, replacing them is the most effective long-term solution. Water suppliers may help with part of the cost, especially for the section of pipe between the property boundary and the house.
  

Read why we distil our tap water at home and the benefits of distilled drinking water.

Why It’s Important to Act

Even though the UK has strong water safety regulations, the risk from old pipework is still real. Lead can be especially harmful to young children and babies, potentially affecting brain development, behaviour, and overall health. Taking proactive steps — such as testing your water and using certified filters — gives you peace of mind that your family’s water is safe.

Clean drinking water should be a basic right, and addressing lead is an essential part of that. Whether you’re renting, owning or renovating, it’s worth investigating your water supply to ensure it’s lead-free.

Is Lead a Big Problem for Water Quality?

Old plumbing infrastructure relied on lead pipes and other parts. Public health officials and treatment experts have learned how detrimental lead is to people when it degrades and seeps into waterways over time. As pipes corrode, lead easily gets into sinks, showerheads and water jugs.

Medical professionals have seen a correlation between rising lead concentrations in water and specific health conditions. These are some of the ailments that should inspire more attention to lead removal:

• Developmental problems
• Neurological issues
• Anemia
• Hearing impairments
• Reproductive concerns

This is the best time for health- and eco-conscious households to take action against residual lead in drinking water. Filters are an ideal place to start, but many other treatment methods lead to a more comprehensive clean. Outsourcing this responsibility to experts and certified equipment can automate the process in every building.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Safe to Drink Water With Lead?

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends many substances and safe thresholds for exposure and consumption. According to research, there are no safe levels of lead for humans. People can shower in lead-contaminated water, as it does not absorb through the skin. Under no circumstances should families drink it, as it could lead to short- and long-term medical problems.

What Is the Difference Between Filtration, Clarification, Purification, Sanitation and Disinfection?

Knowing what these terms mean helps consumers speak with experts and communicate their situation and needs. Some of the terms overlap but have distinguishing characteristics:

• Filtration: Separates solid particulates with a physical filter
• Clarification: Eliminates turbidity and comes first in the treatment process
• Purification: Uses nonphysical methods like distillation, ultraviolet radiation and adsorption to remove more contaminants
• Sanitation: Refers to the broader efforts of treatment facilities and their hygienic efforts
• Disinfection: Chlorinates water at the end of the purification process to kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms

Many of these categories and techniques are types of or steps in water treatment, though they address different issues. 

What Is the Best Way to Remove Lead From Drinking Water?

Most experts in the field use Reverse Osmosis (RO). It has one of the highest effectiveness rates of any treatment method. Organisations like Long’s EcoWater Systems are researching and developing better RO technologies to push RO’s expectations to new heights. Advanced machinery allows higher degrees of sanitation than ever.

Do Water Purifiers Get Rid of Lead?

A point-of-source purification system can reduce lead from drinking water, but it is not always certain to eliminate 100% of traces. Options like sink faucet attachments force the water to go through a filter beforehand, sifting additional contaminants from old pipes or pollution.

However, customers need to double-check to see if what they buy is certified for lead removal. Entities like the Water Quality Association and the NSF/ANSI Standard 53 are stamps of approval for capable technologies. These organisations are verified by third-party agencies, making the products that carry their stamp of approval dependable and worth the financial investment.

What Do You Do if Water Tests Positive for Lead?

Contact your water utility provider to let them know about the problem. It is important to let local officials know because it could motivate infrastructure replacements and retrofits. Old pipes are the source of many lead problems, so upgrades take care of the problem at the source. In the meantime, customers will need point-of-source options.

Homes must filter everything through certified filters until they can install more comprehensive solutions. These steps should make it safe for particular populations — such as children and women who are pregnant — to drink the water.

Final Word: Take the Lead Out — Wherever You Live

Whether you’re in the United States or the UK, the message is the same: lead has no place in drinking water. It’s invisible, tasteless and odourless — yet its health effects can be severe, especially for children and vulnerable adults. While regulations have improved over the years, old infrastructure and overlooked plumbing continue to pose a risk.

Thankfully, technology is on our side. From reverse osmosis to advanced carbon filtration, there are now proven ways to reduce or remove lead at the tap, in the shower, or throughout the whole home. In the US, companies like Long’s EcoWater Systems and iSpring lead the way in filtration innovation. In the UK, certified filters, pipe inspections, and expert guidance from local water suppliers can help households take meaningful action.

The most important step is awareness. Knowing your home’s water supply and pipework, and investing in certified filtration if needed, can make a significant difference. Clean water is not just a basic need — it’s a foundation for good health and peace of mind.

You don’t need to wait for a major overhaul to begin protecting your family. Start small with a certified water test, a trusted filter, or simply by contacting your local water company for advice. Every step towards lead-free water is a step towards a healthier future.