Can Reverse Osmosis Remove Lead?
Quick Summary: Orange County’s water comes from local groundwater, imported sources, and the Groundwater Replenishment System, but lead can still enter through older plumbing. Lead exposure is dangerous at any level, especially in homes with lead pipes or fixtures built before the 1980s. Reverse osmosis systems remove up to 99% of lead and other heavy metals, providing safer, better-tasting water. Culligan of Orange County offers customized RO solutions and free water testing for families who want peace of mind.
Orange County residents often hear about water concerns ranging from hard water to lead in drinking water. While the Orange County Water District blends imported water with local groundwater and advanced treatment from the Groundwater Replenishment System, lead can still enter your tap from older plumbing. Homes built decades ago may still have lead service lines or fixtures that leach contaminants.
This raises the question: can a reverse osmosis system remove lead from Orange County tap water?
Why Lead Is a Concern in Orange County Water
Orange County water consistently meets EPA standards at the source, but lead can leach into drinking water as it flows through aging infrastructure.
Homes built before the 1980s are most likely to contain lead pipes or solder that allow this contaminant to reach faucets.
Even trace amounts of lead are considered unsafe—the EPA’s maximum contaminant goal is zero. Potential health effects include:
- Lead poisoning in children, leading to developmental delays and learning issues
- Increased risk of kidney and cardiovascular problems in adults
- Long-term health impacts even at low exposure levels
With Orange County’s mix of older and newer housing, many families choose extra protection through filtration.
How Reverse Osmosis Removes Lead
Reverse osmosis (RO) is one of the most effective filtration methods for removing lead. The system uses a semipermeable membrane that blocks contaminants as small as individual ions, while allowing water molecules to pass.
A standard RO system includes:
- Pre-filtration – Activated carbon removes chlorine and sediment to protect the RO membrane.
- RO Membrane – Filters out up to 99% of lead, along with other heavy metals, nitrates, and dissolved solids.
- Post-filtration – A polishing filter improves taste and clarity of your drinking water.
The result is clean, safe, and better-tasting water for your home.
Reverse Osmosis vs. Other Filtration Options
While RO excels at reducing lead, many Orange County households pair it with other solutions:
- Whole house water filters – reduce chlorine, sediments, and other impurities throughout your plumbing.
- Under counter water filters – deliver targeted protection for kitchens or high-use sinks.
- Water softeners – help with Orange County’s hard water, reducing scale buildup on faucets and appliances.
Together, these systems provide layered protection for your family and home.
Why Orange County Homeowners Choose Reverse Osmosis
Adding an RO system to your home offers:
- Health protection – reduces exposure to lead poisoning and other heavy metals
- Better taste – improves water for coffee, cooking, and ice
- Peace of mind – protects against hidden risks from older lead service lines
- Appliance longevity – cleaner water helps extend the life of dishwashers, coffee makers, and more
Culligan Reverse Osmosis Solutions for Orange County
Culligan of Orange County offers reverse osmosis systems tailored to the region’s unique water blend. With advanced RO membranes and activated carbon pre-filters, these systems reduce lead, PFAS, and other contaminants while improving taste.
We also provide:
Should You Install an RO System?
Lead contamination can still be a risk for Orange County households with older plumbing. Reverse osmosis systems are proven to reduce lead and improve the quality of your drinking water. For whole-home protection, pair RO with whole house water filters to ensure safe water at every tap.
Not sure what’s in your water? Start with a free water test from Culligan of Orange County and protect your family with confidence.
