Summary
A TikTok video by Cathy Pedrayes warns about the risks of using hot tap water for drinking and cooking due to potential lead exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises using cold water because hot tap water can dissolve lead from pipes more easily, increasing the risk of lead contamination in homes, especially older ones. Health experts recommend using cold water, certified filters, and updating plumbing to reduce lead risks.
Key Facts
- Cathy Pedrayes shared a TikTok video viewed over 130,000 times about the risks of hot tap water.
- Hot water can dissolve lead from plumbing more quickly than cold water.
- The EPA advises against using hot tap water for drinking or cooking.
- Homes built before 1986 are likelier to have lead pipes, but newer homes may also be at risk.
- Even low levels of lead can harm infants, children, and pregnant individuals.
- Experts suggest using cold water, certified filters, and updating plumbing to reduce risks.
- The EPA's updated Lead and Copper Rule requires actions to reduce lead pipes nationwide.
