If you live in neighborhoods like Mapleton-Fall Creek or Meridian-Kessler (ZIP 46205), you may have recently opened your mail to find a letter from Citizens Energy Group regarding lead service lines.
At 317 Plumber, we know these letters can be startling. As your local, family-owned plumbing experts, we’re here to cut through the confusion and help you keep your home’s water safe.
Why Did You Get This Letter?
New federal EPA regulations now require all water utilities to notify customers annually if their service line is made of lead, galvanized steel, or if the material is "unknown".
What You Should Know:
- It’s Common in 46205: Many homes in our area were built before 1950, when lead was a standard material for the pipes connecting your home to the city’s water main.
- It’s Not an Emergency (Yet): Receiving this letter doesn’t necessarily mean there is lead in your water right now, but it does mean your plumbing has a higher risk.
3 Steps to Take Right Now
If you received a notification, don't panic. Follow these steps to protect your family:
- Verify Your Material: Use the Citizens Energy Online Inventory Tool to see exactly what the city has on file for your address.
- Request a Free Test Kit: Citizens offers free lead sampling kits for homes with suspected lead lines. It’s the easiest way to see if lead is actually leaching into your tap water.
- Flush Your Pipes: If you haven’t used your water for several hours, run the cold tap for about 5 minutes before drinking or cooking with it. This flushes out water that has been sitting in the service line.
The Good News: Service Line Replacement May Be Free
Citizens Energy has launched a multi-year program to replace these lines at no additional cost to you. They are working block-by-block through focused neighborhoods. You’ll receive a "Right-of-Entry" agreement when they reach your street—be sure to sign it so they can perform the work for free.
How 317 Plumber Can Help
While the city handles the main service line, many homeowners in 46205 also have older interior plumbing (like lead solder or old brass fixtures) that can contribute to lead levels.
As licensed Indianapolis plumbers, we can:
- Perform a Full Plumbing Inspection: We’ll check your indoor pipes, valves, and fixtures to identify any lead risks.
- Coordinate with the City: If you are planning a major renovation or want your line replaced sooner, we can help you navigate the process.
- Install Filtration Systems: We offer high-quality water softeners and filtration solutions for added peace of mind.
Don't ignore the letter—knowledge is your best tool for a healthy home.
Need a professional eye on your older home's plumbing? Call 317 Plumber today at (317) 548-0044.