Water quality records for Des Plaines, Illinois show Lead detections on file — a finding that places it among the contaminants worth tracking for this area.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Lead in Des Plaines Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Des Plaines, Illinois drinking water at a maximum level of 320 ppb — 21.33x the EPA action level.

This analysis covers 60,676 residents across 4 ZIP codes in Des Plaines.

Des Plaines's overall water quality grade is B (70/100).

Is Lead in Des Plaines Water Safe?

If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

Average lead level across Des Plaines: 320 ppb

Health Effects of Lead

• Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
• Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
• High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
• Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).

How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water

• Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
• Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
• Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
• Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight

What to Do About Lead in Des Plaines Water

1. Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
2. Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
3. Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
4. Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

Related

• Lead — National Overview
• Lead in Illinois
• Illinois Water Quality
• Des Plaines Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code