Water quality is important for all industries. But for others, especially those that directly impact our health, it is a defining one. Industries such as food processing and pharmaceuticals absolutely depend on clean water to ensure the proper functioning of their systems and provide a product that is up to exacting safety standards.

However, the quality of water can be affected by a variety of factors, including the materials used in water mains and plumbing systems. Since today you can find brass water service fittings for sale at every corner, the logical question is: “Is brass a safe material to use for drinking water and how does it compare to other materials commonly used in plumbing today?” 

Can you use brass fittings for drinking water mains?

The use of brass for drinking water mains has been a topic of debate for quite some time since some brass fittings can contain lead. Lead can leach into the water supply if they are not properly manufactured or if the water is acidic or corrosive. 

The problem is that lead exposure can have significant health implications, particularly for infants, children, and pregnant women. To address these concerns, the industry has established standards for lead content in plumbing materials:

• The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) limits the lead content of pipes, fittings, and fixtures to a maximum of 0.25% lead by weight.
• National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) has established standards for lead leaching from plumbing products. Plumbing fittings that meet NSF 61 standards are certified to be safe for use in drinking water systems.

Therefore, brass fittings that meet both the SDWA and NSF 61 standards can be safely used in drinking water mains.

Is brass better than stainless steel for water mains?

The choice of material for water mains is an essential decision, as it affects the quality and safety of the water supply, as shown above. The two most popular options for water mains are brass and stainless steel. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs of the system.

• Brass has been a popular choice for water mains for over a century due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation. Another great advantage is that they are also readily available and cost-effective compared to other materials. However, as previously mentioned, low-quality brass fittings can contain lead, which can leach into the water supply if the fittings are not properly manufactured or if the water is acidic or corrosive.
• Stainless steel, on the other hand, does not contain lead and is resistant to corrosion and rust, making it an attractive option for water mains. However, stainless steel is a relatively new material for water mains, and its long-term durability and reliability are yet to be fully determined.
• Copper is another popular material for water mains due to its excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Copper also does not contain lead, making it a safer option than brass. However, copper is more expensive than brass and requires specialized installation techniques, which can increase the overall cost of the system.

Do brass fittings affect water quality?

Every type of material affects water quality since the compounds in the water itself react with them to a larger or lesser extent. What this means is that the quality of water is directly related to the quality of materials used in the plumbing system. Therefore, it is crucial to use only high-quality products from reputable manufacturers and suppliers for your water main, so as to avoid unnecessary complications.

Where in Rochester, NY area can I find top-quality brass water service fittings for sale?

Blair Supply is the leading distributor of exquisite quality water service materials by some of the world’s most renowned manufacturers. Whether you are looking for brass fittings for your high-pressure system or adequate components for your facility’s plumbing installation, our experts will help you find a solution to fit your exact needs. Get in touch with our team and reap all the benefits of some of the best components available on this side of Lake Ontario!