Can Reverse Osmosis Remove Lead?
Quick Summary: San Diego’s water comes from the Colorado River, Northern California, and local reservoirs, but it can pick up lead from older pipes and fixtures. Lead is dangerous even in small amounts, and homes built before the 1980s face the highest risk. Reverse osmosis systems use advanced filtration to remove up to 99% of lead and other contaminants, delivering safer, better-tasting water. Culligan of San Diego offers customized RO solutions and free water testing to help families protect their health and home.
If you live in San Diego, you’ve probably heard concerns about lead in drinking water—especially in older neighborhoods with aging plumbing. While the San Diego County Water Authority delivers treated water from sources like the Colorado River, Northern California, and local reservoirs, that water can still pick up contaminants on its way to your tap. One of the biggest risks is lead, which can leach in from lead pipes, lead service lines, or outdated fixtures.
So, can a reverse osmosis system really remove lead from San Diego tap water? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Lead Is a Concern in San Diego Water
San Diego’s water leaves treatment plants in compliance with EPA standards.
However, the danger comes after treatment—when water travels through older infrastructure. Homes built before the 1980s may still contain lead plumbing, and even small amounts of lead can pose health risks.
The EPA’s maximum contaminant goal for lead is zero, because no level of exposure is considered safe. Health effects include:
- Developmental delays and learning problems in children
- Increased risk of lead poisoning
- High blood pressure, kidney issues, and cardiovascular problems in adults
With thousands of homes built decades ago, many San Diego families understandably want an extra layer of protection.
How Reverse Osmosis Removes Lead
Reverse osmosis (RO) is one of the most effective technologies for reducing lead in drinking water. RO systems use a semipermeable membrane with pores so tiny that they block contaminants like heavy metals, while allowing water molecules to pass through.
A typical RO system includes:
- Pre-filtration – Activated carbon filters remove chlorine and other chemicals that could damage the RO membrane.
- RO Membrane – Removes up to 99% of lead, along with other contaminants like arsenic, nitrates, and PFAS.
- Post-filtration – A polishing water filter improves taste and clarity.
Result: safer, fresher-tasting water straight from the tap.
Reverse Osmosis vs. Other Filtration Options
While reverse osmosis systems are excellent for drinking water, many San Diego households pair them with other treatment methods for complete coverage:
- Whole house water filters – protect your plumbing, laundry, and showers from chlorine, sediments, and other contaminants.
- Under counter water filters – compact systems for specific sinks or appliances.
- Water softeners – help with San Diego’s moderately hard water, reducing scale buildup on fixtures and appliances.
No single filter removes everything. That’s why combining RO with other solutions creates the most complete protection for your home.
Why San Diego Homeowners Choose Reverse Osmosis
For San Diego families, installing a reverse osmosis system offers:
- Health protection – reduces exposure to lead poisoning and other heavy metals
- Better taste – improves the quality of water for coffee, cooking, and ice
- Peace of mind – ensures safe drinking water even if plumbing contains lead service lines
- Appliance longevity – filtered water helps protect dishwashers, coffee makers, and more
Culligan Reverse Osmosis Solutions for San Diego
Culligan of San Diego provides reverse osmosis systems designed for the city’s unique water challenges. With advanced RO membranes and activated carbon pre-filters, our systems target lead, heavy metals, and other common contaminants.
We also offer:
- Free water testing to identify lead, PFAS, and other water quality issues
- Professional installation and maintenance for long-term reliability
- Systems that integrate seamlessly with whole house water filters and softeners
Should You Install an RO System?
Lead may not be visible, but its risks are real—especially in older San Diego homes with outdated plumbing. Reverse osmosis systems are proven to reduce lead and improve the quality of your drinking water. For complete home protection, installing an RO system with whole house water filters to enjoy clean, safe water from every tap.
Not sure what’s in your water? Start with a free water test from Culligan of San Diego and take the first step toward healthier water.
