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Melrose's Drinking Water Quality

Melrose’s drinking water is supplied by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). MWRA’s water originates from the Quabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs in central Massachusetts and is treated at the John Carroll Water Treatment Facility in Marlborough. The Quabbin Reservoir’s water is some of the purest source water in the country. Extensive information regarding MWRA’s water quality can be found here.

Information about Lead

MWRA water is lead free when it leaves the reservoirs. MWRA and local pipes that carry the water to our community are made mostly of iron and steel and do not add lead to the water. However, lead can get into tap water through pipes in homes or businesses with lead service lines connecting to the street, lead solder used in plumbing, and some brass fixtures. Corrosion or wearing-away of lead-based material can add lead to tap water, especially if water sits for a long time in the pipes before use.

  • To find out if you might have a lead service line and how it can be replaced, please contact Scott Dixon at the Melrose Engineering Division at 781-979-4172.

Whether you have a lead service line or not, the City recommends that you take the following steps to keep any potential lead out of the water you or others at your residence or business drink:

  • Most importantly, flush the tap until after the water feels cold before use. The flushing of your tap ensures the best quality water. The water coming from the water main pipe in the street has no lead.
  • Never use hot water from the faucet for drinking or cooking, especially when making baby formula.
  • Never boil water to remove lead. Boiling water for an extended time may make lead more concentrated.
  • Check your plumbing to make sure it is not adding lead to your water.

Even if the lead level at your property is below the federal “Action Level” of 15 parts per billion, it is a good idea to follow the above suggestions for fresh water supply.

For more information about the potential for lead in tap water and steps you can take to reduce exposure, please visit the MWRA’s lead webpage (http://www.mwra.com/04water/html/qual6leadinfo.htm), view this brochure, or contact Beverly Anderson at the MWRA at 617-788-4822.