**Lead-Free is the Future of Plumbing Hardware**
Recently, a shocking incident involving "lead-exceeding" faucets sparked widespread public concern. A sample test conducted by Shanghai TV Station revealed that 9 out of 13 faucet brands had lead levels in soaked water that exceeded national standards. One brand even had a lead content of 173 micrograms per liter—over 34 times the limit. This alarming result highlights the urgent need for stricter quality control and consumer awareness.
Though small in size, faucets play a critical role in ensuring the safety of household drinking water. Currently, most faucets on the Chinese market are made from copper or alloy materials. However, some unscrupulous manufacturers use low-quality leaded brass to cut costs. During electroplating and other surface treatments, they often use excessive amounts of lead and chromium, while skipping essential lead-washing processes before packaging. This leads to high lead content in the water, which can cause long-term health risks such as damage to the nervous system, immune system, and even lead poisoning, especially for children and pregnant women.
The issue of lead contamination has been compared to the melamine scandal due to its severe health implications. Recent quality inspections by the Shanghai Bureau of Quality Supervision found that 21 out of 68 faucet batches failed, with six of them having excessive lead levels. Similarly, a Beijing Consumers Association test showed that 34% of 50 ceramic-seal faucet samples did not meet safety standards. Only two samples were completely lead-free, underscoring the widespread problem.
Experts warn that lead exposure is particularly dangerous for children. According to research, 30–40% of urban children in China have elevated blood lead levels, with some major cities reporting over 60% of children affected. Lead poisoning can impair cognitive development, cause behavioral issues, and even lead to lifelong health complications.
The problem often stems from poor-quality leaded brass used in faucets. When exposed to air, the oxide layer on the surface can easily flake off, allowing more lead to dissolve into the water, especially after being left stagnant overnight. Experts recommend flushing the faucet for 1–2 minutes if it hasn't been used for several hours to reduce lead exposure.
Industry insiders revealed that many faucets labeled as “pure copper†are actually made from recycled leaded brass. These products are often sold at significantly lower prices, sometimes just tens of yuan, making them a risky choice for consumers. A genuine copper faucet typically costs at least 100 yuan, indicating that cheaper options may contain higher lead content.
Lead-free technology is now seen as the future of the plumbing hardware industry. Products such as lead-free copper, stainless steel, and composite materials are increasingly available in the market. The recent leadè¶…æ ‡ (excessive lead) incidents have also raised speculation about the involvement of certain stainless steel plumbing companies.
To ensure you purchase a safe and reliable faucet, experts advise buying from well-known brands at reputable home improvement stores. Always request product testing reports, brand certifications, and after-sales service information. Look for international certifications like NSF or CSA, which are widely recognized for their rigorous safety standards.
You can also assess the quality of a faucet by visual inspection, weight, and functionality. A good faucet should have a smooth, mirror-like finish with no scratches or burrs. It should feel heavy and solid in your hand, and the valve core should operate smoothly without resistance. A high-quality faucet will mix air and water effectively, resulting in soft, quiet water flow.
In terms of regulations, China currently follows the GB18145-2003 standard for ceramic seal faucets, but this does not include specific limits on harmful substances like lead. While there are recommended standards such as GB/T17219-1998 and JC/T 1043-2007, these are not strictly enforced. However, the new mandatory national standard for ceramic seal faucets is expected to be implemented soon, setting lead limits similar to U.S. standards—no more than 5 micrograms per liter. This marks a significant step toward safer plumbing products in China.
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