AWWA ACE94016

Small systems--defined as community and nontransient noncommunity water systems that serve a population of 3,300 or less--are also regulated by the Lead and Copper Rule. The rule requires these systems to demonstrate that the existing lead and copper levels in customer taps are below the EPA-defined "action level" or that optimal treatment has been installed to control lead and copper. The intent of the rule is to minimize the dissolution of lead and copper into tap water. High levels of these substances in water systems have been linked to health and aesthetic problems. As with all regulations, there is a cost associated with compliance. The cost to implement corrosion control treatment will vary based on system size; economies of scale are realized as the number of customers served increases. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that, for smaller systems (less than 50,000), treatment is estimated to cost $2.00 to $20.00 per household per year, while monitoring will cost approximately $3.00 per household per year. This paper provides an overview of the Lead and Copper Rule's requirements and discusses compliance strategy, including treatment options. The engineering requirements for treatment are presented to provide guidance to small systems facing installation of treatment facilities. Sample case studies are also provided.