**Phoenix Pipes: Old Copper Crashing Summer Youth?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 2, 2025

The desert sun beats down, baking the terracotta roofs of Willo and Encanto. It’s beautiful, iconic Phoenix. But beneath the surface, something less picturesque might be lurking in your pipes: lead and copper leaching into your drinking water. Especially during these scorching summers, the risk increases.

This isn’t scaremongering; it’s a reality for many homes in Phoenix’s historic districts, where aging copper plumbing is common. This guide is your roadmap to understanding the risks, testing your water, and taking action to protect your family. We’ll focus on practical, DIY solutions and when it’s time to call in the pros.

First, let’s understand the problem. Copper pipes, over time, can corrode, especially with Phoenix’s water chemistry and high summer temperatures. This corrosion releases copper into your water supply. While copper is an essential nutrient in small amounts, excessive levels can cause health problems, including gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and kidney disease. Children are particularly vulnerable.

Lead is another concern. Even if your main water lines are copper, older homes may still have lead solder connecting pipes. This is especially true in homes built before 1986. Copper pipes can also leach lead from the solder.

How do you know if you have a problem? Look for these telltale signs:

• Blue-green staining: This is a classic indicator of copper corrosion. Check your sinks, bathtubs, and toilets for blue-green stains.
• Metallic taste: If your water has a metallic taste, it could be due to elevated copper levels.
• Corrosion on pipes: Examine exposed copper pipes for signs of corrosion, such as pitting or a greenish film.

Don’t rely solely on these signs. The only way to know for sure is to test your water. Fortunately, DIY water testing kits are readily available at most hardware stores and online retailers. Look for kits specifically designed to test for copper and lead.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a DIY water testing kit:

1. Choose a reliable kit: Research different brands and read reviews to ensure the kit is accurate and easy to use. Home Depot and Lowe’s both carry a variety of options.
2. Follow the instructions carefully: Each kit is slightly different, so read the instructions thoroughly before you begin.
3. Collect your sample properly: The most important step is collecting a representative water sample. Let the water run for 3-5 minutes before collecting the sample to flush out any stagnant water in the pipes. Use the container provided in the kit.
4. Test cold water: Always test cold water, as hot water can accelerate corrosion.
5. Test first draw water: The first water drawn in the morning, after the water has been sitting in the pipes overnight, will have the highest concentration of contaminants. This is the most important sample to test.
6. Compare your results to EPA standards: The EPA’s action level for copper is 1.3 parts per million (ppm), and for lead, it’s 0.015 ppm. If your results exceed these levels, further action is needed.

Now, let’s talk about Phoenix’s water quality. The City of Phoenix Water Services Department publishes an annual water quality report, also known as a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). You can find this report on the city’s website. This report provides information about the source of your water, the levels of various contaminants, and how Phoenix’s water quality compares to EPA standards.

While the city’s water supply generally meets EPA standards, it’s important to remember that the CCR reflects the water quality at the source, not necessarily at your tap. Your home’s plumbing can significantly impact the water quality you receive.

If your DIY test reveals elevated levels of copper or lead, don’t panic. The next step is to confirm the results with a certified laboratory test. These tests are more accurate and can provide a more detailed analysis of your water.

You can find a list of certified laboratories on the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) website. Search for labs that are certified to test for drinking water contaminants.

Once you have confirmed the presence of copper or lead contamination, it’s time to consider your options for mitigation. Here are a few approaches:

• Flushing your pipes: Running your water for a few minutes each morning can help flush out any accumulated contaminants. This is a temporary solution, but it can reduce your exposure in the short term.
• Installing a water filter: A point-of-use filter, such as a faucet filter or a pitcher filter, can remove copper and lead from your drinking water. Look for filters that are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction and NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for aesthetic effects (taste, odor, chlorine).
• Replacing your plumbing: The most effective long-term solution is to replace your aging copper pipes with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) or CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) pipes. These materials are less prone to corrosion and won’t leach contaminants into your water.

Repiping your home is a significant investment, but it can provide peace of mind and protect your family’s health. If you’re considering repiping, it’s essential to hire a licensed and experienced plumber who specializes in copper repiping.

Here’s how to find a qualified plumber in Phoenix:

• Ask for recommendations: Ask your neighbors, friends, or family for recommendations.
• Check online reviews: Read online reviews on sites like Yelp and Google to get an idea of the plumber’s reputation.
• Verify their license: Make sure the plumber is licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. You can verify their license online.
• Get multiple quotes: Get quotes from at least three different plumbers before making a decision.
• Ask about their experience with copper repiping: Make sure the plumber has experience with copper repiping, especially in historic homes.
• Ask about their insurance: Make sure the plumber has liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

Now, let’s talk about city rebates and programs. The City of Phoenix does not currently offer specific rebates or programs for pipe replacement. However, it’s worth checking with the city’s Water Services Department to see if any programs are available or planned for the future. You can also contact your local councilmember to advocate for such programs.

One common mistake homeowners make is ignoring the problem. They may dismiss the signs of copper contamination or assume that their water is safe because the city’s water supply meets EPA standards. This is a dangerous assumption.

Another mistake is attempting to DIY repiping without the necessary skills and experience. Repiping is a complex job that requires specialized tools and knowledge. Improperly installed pipes can lead to leaks, water damage, and other problems.

Finally, some homeowners choose the cheapest option without considering the long-term consequences. While it’s important to stay within your budget, it’s also important to choose quality materials and hire a qualified plumber. Cutting corners can end up costing you more in the long run.

Living in a historic Phoenix neighborhood like Willo or Encanto is a privilege, but it also comes with unique challenges. Addressing the risk of copper and lead contamination in your drinking water is an important step in protecting your family’s health and preserving the value of your home. Take action today to test your water, understand your options, and ensure that your water is safe to drink. Don’t wait for the next scorching summer to take action.