Is There Lead in the Camco Propane Fitting part # CAM59953  

Question:

Expert Reply:

As in most brass fittings there is a small percentage of lead in them. It shouldn't be a problem but there is a method you can use to remove the very small amount surface lead of the Camco Propane Fitting # CAM59953. You should note that the amount of lead in this brass fitting is low enough that it shouldn't pose any type of health risk.

Dilute 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts of vinegar in a bowl to form the cleaning solution. The acidic properties of this solution are able to dissolve the lead without affecting the composition of the metal. Hydrogen peroxide is irritating to skin so be sure to wear gloves when mixing and using it. Avoid contact with your eyes and wipe up any spillages quickly.

Use a small brush, such as an old toothbrush, to apply the solution to any hard to reach areas in order to make sure that the plumbing fitting is as lead-free as possible. Use a generous amount of solution on the brush for best results. Do not forget to wipe the liquid away before moving on to the next step.

Soak the towel or cloth in the cleaning solution and wrap it around the entire plumbing fitting securely. Leave it in place for around 7 minutes and check to see if the brass has taken on the buttery-yellow color that indicates that the lead has been removed.

If the fitting does not yet have the correct color, leave the towel in place and check it every minute or so until it does. Take care not to leave the towel in place for too long otherwise the fitting may begin to turn blue-green as the copper present in the brass starts to dissolve. If this happens, you will need to begin the process again using a clean towel soaked in solution as the existing one may have become contaminated with lead. Repeat the process with any other brass plumbing fixtures showing signs of lead accumulation.

When the brass fittings are a rich buttery-yellow color, you can remove the soaked towel and wipe the surfaces down thoroughly. The process may be repeated again in the future as required. An indication of lead build-up on brass is that the color will darken. However, you may also wish to invest in a home lead testing kit in order to monitor the levels that exist. As hot water tends to contain higher levels of lead, you may find that hot water faucet will become dark first. This is one of the reasons that you should avoid drinking water directly from the hot water supply.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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