Columbus – Ohio
Columbus, Ohio’s largest city and the 14th-largest in the United States, delivers water to over 1.5 million residents through the Columbus Division of Water, which operates one of the Midwest’s most extensive municipal water systems. The division manages approximately 5,000 miles of water mains, three major water treatment plants, and numerous pumping stations, delivering more than 200 million gallons daily across the city and surrounding communities.
Columbus draws its water supply primarily from the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, both tributaries of the Ohio River, with additional supply from Griggs and O’Shaughnessy reservoirs. The city has invested heavily in watershed protection and advanced treatment technologies to ensure high-quality drinking water. Columbus is recognized for its proactive approach to water infrastructure management, including extensive lead service line replacement programs and innovative green infrastructure initiatives that protect both drinking water quality and the environment.
Columbus Water Quality: Current Status (2024-2025)
Latest Testing Results
- Lead Levels: The most recent testing period (January-December 2023) showed 90th percentile lead levels of 5.8 parts per billion (ppb), below the EPA action level of 15 ppb, though Columbus continues its aggressive lead service line replacement program.
- Testing Scope: Columbus conducts over 100,000 water quality tests annually across its extensive distribution network, including regular lead monitoring at residential properties with known lead service lines.
- Compliance Status: Columbus’s water meets all federal and state drinking water standards, maintaining full compliance with EPA regulations and Ohio EPA requirements.
Lead Service Line Initiative
- Comprehensive Replacement Program: Columbus operates one of the nation’s most comprehensive customer-led lead service line replacement programs, replacing approximately 10,000 lines annually through the Lead and Customer Service Line Protection Program.
- Free Replacement Service: The city provides free lead service line replacement to all residential customers, including full excavation and restoration of property, with financial assistance programs available for associated plumbing upgrades.
- Proactive Inventory: Advanced GIS mapping and historical records have identified approximately 170,000 lead service lines throughout the system, with systematic replacement prioritizing high-risk areas and vulnerable populations.
State-of-the-Art Treatment
- Advanced Treatment Facilities: Three major treatment plants (Parsons Avenue, Hap Cremean, and Dublin Road) utilize comprehensive treatment processes including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and chlorine disinfection.
- Corrosion Control: Optimized orthophosphate addition prevents lead leaching from pipes, with treatment dosages based on extensive distribution system studies and regulatory requirements.
- Source Water Protection: Extensive watershed management programs along the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, including agricultural best management practices and industrial pretreatment requirements.
Infrastructure Excellence
- Smart Water Technology: Advanced metering infrastructure with leak detection capabilities, real-time water quality monitoring, and SCADA systems for optimal system management.
- Main Replacement Strategy: Systematic replacement of aging water mains with approximately 50 miles renewed annually, coordinated with street improvements to minimize disruptions.
- Green Infrastructure: Columbus is implementing over 100 green infrastructure projects including bioswales, permeable pavements, and rain gardens to reduce stormwater impacts on water quality.
Environmental Leadership
Columbus has committed to removing all lead service lines by 2027, ahead of federal requirements, demonstrating nationwide leadership in water infrastructure modernization. The city’s integrated watershed management approach combines traditional infrastructure improvements with nature-based solutions, protecting both drinking water sources and local waterways. Columbus also leads in customer education and community engagement, providing extensive resources about water quality, conservation, and lead prevention while maintaining transparent communication about all water quality data and improvement initiatives.
Recommendations for Columbus Residents
Request Lead Line Replacement
Check if your home has a lead service line at www.columbus.gov/leadfreecbus. Schedule free replacement through the city’s program by calling (614) 645-7877. Replacement includes full service and property restoration.
Use Certified Filters
If you have lead service lines, use NSF-certified filters (Standard 53) for drinking and cooking water. Columbus offers free pitcher filters to residents with lead service lines through the Lead and Customer Service Line Protection Program.
Test Your Water
Schedule free water testing through Columbus Division of Water at (614) 645-7878. Testing is especially important for homes with children, pregnant women, or known lead service lines.
Flush Before Use
If water has been sitting in pipes for 6+ hours, run cold water for 2-3 minutes before using for drinking or cooking. Always use cold water for consumption, as hot water may contain higher metal levels.
Conserve Resources
Participate in Columbus’s water conservation programs including rebates for efficient fixtures and rain barrel sales. Report leaks promptly to (614) 645-8277 to help maintain system efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my home has a lead service line?
Columbus has extensively documented lead service lines throughout the city. You can check if your property has a lead service line by:
1. Visit www.columbus.gov/leadfreecbus to search your address in the interactive map
2. Call (614) 645-7877 to speak with the Lead and Customer Service Line Protection Program team
3. Look for the service line at your water meter (usually near the street). Lead pipes are dull gray, soft enough to scratch with a key, and non-magnetic
If your home was built before 1930, it almost certainly has a lead service line. Properties built between 1930-1960 may have partial lead lines.
Is Columbus’s commitment to replace all lead lines by 2027 achievable?
Yes, Columbus is on track to meet this ambitious goal. The city’s Lead and Customer Service Line Protection Program is replacing approximately 10,000 lead service lines annually. Key factors supporting this timeline include:
• Dedicated funding: Significant city budget allocation specifically for lead line replacement
• Streamlined processes: Efficient permitting and construction procedures
• Customer-led approach: Homeowners can initiate the process at no cost
• Complete replacement: Full service line replacement from street to home
As of early 2024, over 30,000 lead service lines have already been replaced, with the program accelerating each year.
What should I do during lead service line replacement?
Lead service line replacement typically takes 6-8 hours. During this time:
Before Replacement:
• You’ll receive advance notice with detailed instructions
• Store several gallons of water for daily needs
• Secure pets and clear work areas
During Replacement:
• Water service will be shut off temporarily
• Crews will work to minimize disruption
• All excavation and restoration is included
After Replacement:
• Run faucets for 3-5 minutes to clear sediment
• Consider using filters until testing confirms water quality
• Your lawn and landscaping will be restored
Why does my water smell like chlorine sometimes?
Columbus uses chlorine as its primary disinfectant to ensure safe water throughout the distribution system. You may notice stronger chlorine smell or taste:
• During warmer months when higher disinfectant levels are maintained
• After main breaks or system maintenance when additional chlorine is used
• If you live closer to water treatment plants
• During periods of high water demand
This is normal and does not affect water safety. To reduce chlorine taste/odor:
• Fill a pitcher and refrigerate for several hours
• Let water sit uncovered at room temperature before drinking
• Use a basic carbon filter if preferred
Chlorine levels are carefully monitored and maintained within EPA guidelines.
Contaminants of Concern
Lead
Source: Lead service lines, lead solder, and plumbing fixtures in homes built before 1987; Columbus has approximately 170,000 lead service lines
Health Effects: Developmental delays in children, reduced IQ, learning difficulties, kidney problems, cardiovascular effects in adults
Current Levels: 90th percentile value of 5.8 ppb, below EPA action level of 15 ppb EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no level of lead is considered safe
Disinfection Byproducts
Source: Form when chlorine used for disinfection reacts with naturally occurring organic matter in the Scioto and Olentangy rivers
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of bladder cancer and reproductive effects with long-term exposure to elevated levels
Current Status: Continuously monitored and maintained well below EPA limits; levels vary seasonally but remain within safe ranges
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