Effect of Nitrification and GAC Filtration on Copper and Lead Leaching in Home Plumbing Systems.

Nitrification and granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration impact leaching of lead/copper to potable water under typical home plumbing configurations. GAC filters removed the disinfectant and caused rapid establishment of nitrification in chloraminated systems. The potential adverse consequences of whole house GAC filters deserve increased scrutiny in chloraminated systems. The lower pH values from nitrification and other microbes during overnight stagnation in pipes can markedly increase (up to 800%) lead and copper contamination of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]