Plumbing put in before 1930 may contain lead pipes. Newer homes should not have water pipes joined with lead-based solder. Minnesota banned the use of water pipes joined with lead-based solder in June of 1985. New brass faucets may also contain lead. The only way you can tell if your water has lead in it is to have the water tested by a certified lab.
Hot water dissolves more lead than cold water.
Always use cold water for cooking or drinking. Let the cold water run for a couple of minutes, or until there is a temperature change, each time the water has been sitting in the pipes for six or more hours. If you need hot water, pour it from the cold water faucet and then heat it on the stove. We welcome your comments and suggestions about this site.