Which environmental factor can increase the likelihood of lead leaching?

Lead leaching is influenced by water chemistry, and one significant factor that can increase the likelihood of lead leaching is soft water with low mineral content. Soft water, which lacks minerals such as calcium and magnesium, has a lower ability to neutralize corrosive effects on lead pipes and plumbing fixtures. This corrosivity can cause lead to dissolve into the water supply, leading to potential health hazards for consumers.

Soft water has a higher tendency to absorb metals and contaminants in the distribution system because it has fewer ions to balance the acidity of the water. Consequently, corrosive water can strip away the protective scale that naturally forms on the inside of pipes over time, exposing lead fixtures to the water and increasing lead levels in the drinking supply.

In contrast, high pH levels, cold temperatures, and high levels of chlorine generally do not have the same direct impact on lead leaching. High pH can actually make the water less corrosive, while cold temperatures can reduce the leaching process. Elevated chlorine levels, while they do play a role in disinfection, may not significantly affect the solubility of lead in comparison to the effects of soft water.