Lead Pipe Map

Does a Brita filter remove lead?

Some do, some don't. The standard white Brita pitcher filter is not certified for lead. The Brita Elite pitcher filter and Brita faucet-mount filters are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction.

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Brita

  • Brita Elite (formerly Longlast+): certified for lead. See Brita Elite filters.
  • Brita faucet-mount systems: certified for lead.
  • Brita Standard (white) and Stream filters: improve taste and reduce some metals, but are not certified for lead.

PUR

PUR Plus pitcher and dispenser filters and PUR faucet filters are certified for lead reduction. PUR's basic pitcher filter is not. See PUR Plus filters.

ZeroWater

ZeroWater's 5-stage filters are certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead. They clog faster in water with high dissolved solids. See ZeroWater pitchers.

Refrigerator filters

Many fridge filters are certified for lead, but not all. Look up the exact cartridge model number.

How to check any filter

  1. Find "NSF/ANSI 53" and "lead reduction" on the box or the manufacturer's performance data sheet.
  2. Search the model on NSF's certified product listings at info.nsf.org/Certified/DWTU. IAPMO, WQA and CSA also certify to the standard.
  3. Replace the cartridge on time. Lead certification only holds for the rated capacity.

More options, including under-sink systems: water filters that remove lead.

Look up your water system or ZIP code on the Lead Pipe Map home page to see how many lead lines it reported.

Common questions

Does the regular Brita filter remove lead?

No. The standard white Brita pitcher filter is not certified for lead reduction. Brita Elite filters and Brita faucet systems are certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead.

Is PUR or Brita better for lead?

Both make filters certified for lead: PUR Plus and PUR faucet filters, and Brita Elite and Brita faucet filters. Pick a certified model and replace it on schedule.

Does boiling water remove lead?

No. Boiling does not remove lead and can concentrate it as water evaporates.

More: How to tell if your home has a lead service line · What "lead status unknown" means · Water filters that remove lead · How to test your tap water for lead · Lead service line replacement: cost, who pays and deadlines · Is it safe to shower with lead pipes?