Preguntas Frecuentes Inventario Lineas

1. What is a service line inventory?

A service line inventory is a detailed record of all the pipes that connect the Customer's property to the public water system. This inventory includes a classification of the service line based on the type of material it is made of, categorizing it as lead, galvanized requiring replacement, unknown, or non-lead.

2. How the AAA identifies line-service material?

PRASA uses a combination of methods, such as reviewing historical records, visual inspections, and field testing to determine service line material.

3. How to know if the service line will be visually inspected?

If an inspection of your property is necessary, we will notify you in advance by means of a letter or notice. These visits will be carried out at the properties according to a work schedule to cover the different areas.

4. How to tell if the service line is made of lead?

If it is determined the service line is made of lead, the customer will receive a written notification from the Puerto Rico Water and Sewer Authority (PRASA) with detailed information about the type of material in the property's service line. You can also check the public inventory that is available on our website: www.aqueductos.pr.gov. You can also hire a licensed plumber to test your segment or part of the service line and determine what material it is made of.

5. What does it mean if I receive a letter stating that the service line is made of lead?

This means that at least part of the pipe connecting the street water network to the property contains lead.

6. What does it mean if I receive a letter stating that the service line is galvanized requiring replacement (GRR)?

A galvanized service line requiring replacement is a pipe of galvanized material on the customer's side that may have been connected to a leaded pipe at some point. Galvanized material can accumulate (absorb) lead and become a source of lead in drinking water.

7. A galvanized line requiring replacement (GRR) is dangerous?

Not necessarily. However, galvanized pipes can accumulate (absorb) lead, which can increase the risk of exposure to that substance.

8. What does it mean for the service line to be “unknown”?

An unknown service line means that, with the current information available, PRASA has been unable to identify the exact materials of the pipe. Under the LCRR, the inventory of service lines will continue to be updated annually.

9. What should I do if the service line is “unknown”?

Preventively, recommended protective measures can be implemented (see Question 17) for cases of lead or galvanized pipes that require replacement. In addition, you can hire a licensed plumber to test your segment or part of the service line and determine what material it is made of.

10. What is lead and where can it be found?

Lead is a common metal that can be found in air, soil, food, certain types of pottery, soldering, and water. Lead can also be found in paint and other products, especially in older homes, children's toys, exposure at certain types of work, and other products. It can found from multiple sources within a home. Lead is not usually found in water sources or in chemicals used to treat drinking water. Lead usually enters drinking water when household appliances corrode (lead-based soldering used to join copper pipes, bronze faucets), internal pipes (plumbing), and service lines that contain lead.

11. What are some possible health effects from lead?

Exposure to lead can cause new learning and behavioral problems or worsen existing learning and behavioral problems. Adults may have a higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney or nervous system problems.

12. Could lead be present in the connectors and meters?

At this time, as established in this EPA regulation, connectors are not considered part of the service line. PRASA, complying with federal and local regulations, only installs certified lead-free water meters.

13. When will they replace the lead or GRR service line?

PRASA will be reporting opportunities for the replacement of service lines in the future, as needed. The EPA is evaluating changes that may include additional information on this issue.

14. What will the PRASA do if it finds a service line with lead after submitting the initial inventory?

The initial inventory is constantly being updated. If a service line with lead is found, it will be updated in the service line inventory, which you can access through our website: www.aqueductos.pr.gov.

15. What happens if I identified (subscriber or customer) the material of my main line?

Thank you for your diligence in taking steps to identify the materials of your service line. You must provide us with that information by sending an email to LCRR@acueductospr.com or by calling 787-497-0077, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Please provide the following information: Name, PRASA account number, and account address.

16. Is the water I am using safe?

Yes, PRASA water is safe, since it is usually tested by PRASA itself and by the Department of Health. For more information and to take additional precautions, refer to www.aqueductos.pr.gov.

17. Where can I find additional information on how to protect myself from lead in drinking water?

For more information, please visit our website: www.aqueductos.pr.gov and links to other sources of information on this topic. Some recommendations for preventing lead in drinking water include running cold water for a few minutes before using it for drinking or cooking, using certified filters (NSF-53) to reduce lead, and avoiding using hot tap water to drink or prepare food. In addition, remove and clean the faucet mesh (aerator) periodically.

18. Where can I get up-to-date information on service line materials?

For more details about your service line you can visit our website: www.aqueductos.pr.gov. In the “Service Line Inventory Program” section, you will find up-to-date information, an interactive map, and additional resources on actions that PRASA is taking under the LCRR.

19. How long will PRASA measures take under the LCRR (Revised Lead and Copper Rule)?

The program is estimated to last several years.

20. Why is copper mentioned in the Rule?

Copper is not the primary focus of the Rule. Ingesting copper does not usually cause illness in most people. PRASA also monitors copper levels in drinking water.

21. For additional questions please contact:

LCRR@acueductospr.com

Service Line Inventory FAQs