Cadmium
Summary: Cadmium is an industrial metal that can enter drinking water from corroding plumbing, industrial activity, or certain fertilizers. Most homes have none—but if you live near historical industry, mining, or older galvanized plumbing, testing is smart.
Where does cadmium come from?
- Galvanized plumbing & metal fixtures: Corrosion in older galvanized pipes and fittings can release trace metals, including cadmium.
- Industrial/mining areas: Historic smelters, plating shops, landfills, or mine tailings can affect local groundwater.
- Agricultural inputs: Some phosphate fertilizers can introduce small amounts over time.
Why homeowners should care
Cadmium is invisible—no taste or smell at typical levels—so only a lab test can tell you if it’s present. Private wells are most at risk when located near older industry or corroding plumbing.
How we test
HealthWaterLab uses a laboratory colorimetric method with low-level detection and quality controls. For private wells, we recommend periodic testing, and a confirmation test if results are close to regulatory limits.
How to read your result
- Compare: Look at federal/state limits and any local guidance.
- Confirm: If your result is near a limit, take a second sample to confirm—chemistry and plumbing can change.
- Context: Review corrosivity (pH, alkalinity) and plumbing materials; check for old galvanized or mixed-metal connections.
If cadmium is detected: practical next steps
- Reverse osmosis (RO) at the kitchen sink: An under-sink RO system forces water through a fine membrane and is one of the most reliable ways to reduce cadmium for drinking/cooking.
- Reduce corrosion: Very low pH or alkalinity can pull metals from pipes. Address corrosivity before or alongside treatment.
- Whole-home options: If a site source is suspected (not just plumbing), consider whole-home treatment and consult local health/environment agencies.
- Maintain & verify: Replace filters/media on schedule and confirm performance with a follow-up lab test at the treated faucet.
FAQ
Can I taste or smell cadmium in water?
No. Cadmium is not detectable by taste or smell at typical levels—lab testing is the only way to know.
Does boiling remove cadmium?
No—boiling concentrates dissolved metals. Use reverse osmosis (RO) or specialized media certified for cadmium reduction.
Do water softeners remove cadmium?
Not reliably. Softeners target hardness (calcium/magnesium) and can foul with metals. Use RO or media designed for cadmium.
Will a carbon pitcher or fridge filter remove cadmium?
Standard carbon filters are not dependable for cadmium. Choose RO or a system specifically certified for heavy-metal reduction.
Which faucet should I test?
Start with the kitchen cold-water tap (the one used for drinking/cooking). If you install treatment, test the treated faucet to verify removal.
How often should I test for cadmium?
For private wells: annually, and after changes (plumbing work, droughts/floods). If results are near a limit, confirm with a follow-up test.
Is showering a concern if cadmium is in my water?
Exposure is primarily from drinking/cooking, not normal showering. Focus treatment on the water you consume.
My home has old galvanized pipes—what should I do?
Consider replacing galvanized sections and mixed-metal joints. In the meantime, use RO at the kitchen tap and flush stagnant water before use.
Could my workplace exposure affect my tap water?
Workplace exposure doesn’t usually affect your home tap. However, if you bring work clothes/equipment home, avoid laundering them with household items and keep the well area clean.
How do I know my treatment is still working?
Follow filter/media replacement schedules and verify with a lab test at the treated faucet. Keep simple logs of filter dates and results.
Need help choosing a test or system? Visit HealthWaterLab.com for kits, step-by-step sampling guides, and expert support.