Which type of water is most corrosive to lead pipes?

The most corrosive type of water to lead pipes is acidic and soft water. Acidic water has a low pH level, which means it is more aggressive in dissolving materials it comes into contact with, including metals like lead. This reaction occurs because the low acidity disturbs the protective oxide layer that forms on the surface of lead pipes, escalating the rate at which lead can leach into the water supply.

Soft water, which typically has lower concentrations of dissolved minerals, lacks the ions that would normally compete with lead for dissolution. This creates an environment where lead can more readily enter the water. Thus, the combination of acidity and low mineral content is particularly effective in causing corrosion and increasing lead solubility, making this type of water the most corrosive to lead pipes.