Public Works & Utilities

To help residents with lead service lines receive the best water possible, the program will supply a FREE water pitcher and replacement filters to residents with a known or suspected lead or galvanized water service. 

* Zerowater pitchers and filters are no longer being distributed.  Residents seeking Zerowater replacement filters are eligible for a new Brita water pitcher with the Elite filter.          

Eligibility

Residents living at properties identified or suspected to have a lead or galvanized line are eligible for a free water pitcher filter and replacement filters.  Lead service lines are identified through review of existing records and inspections.

Use the link to find out the material of your service line. Minnesota Service Line Material Tool (umn.edu)

Residents at affected locations will be issued a water filter upon identification during inspections and by request.  If you are eligible and have not received a pitcher or you would like to request replacement filters, you may request a voucher by filling out the form below or by contacting the Lead Removal Program at 218-730-4673 or email leadremoval@duluthmn.gov.

Pitcher Use

Using an NSF/ANSI rated water filtration system is an effective way to reduce exposure to lead in the drinking water.  You should use your water pitcher filter for drinking water, cooking, food and drink preparation including baby formula.

Please follow the instructions provided with the water pitcher. 

Brita Elite

• Brita Elite filters have a life of 120 gallons or approximately 6 months of standard use.
• Fill from the top and allow the water to work it’s way through the filter into the container.
• The indicator light near the spout will turn red when it is time to change the filter.

Filter Disposal and Recycling

Brita filters are NOT recyclable locally.  They may be disposed of in your trash or you may use the link below to use the manufacturer’s recycling program.  The City of Duluth will not pay or reimburse for postage and shipping charges associated with any recycling program.  All costs related to recycling the filters are your responsibility.

Use the following link for information on recycling your Brita filters and products: Brita Information

Certified

The Brita Elite pitcher filter system meets NSF/ANSI standard 42 and 53 for the reduction of lead.  More information can be found at the following links.

EPA –Identifying Point of Use and Pitcher Filters Certified to Reduce Lead in Drinking Water https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-06/how-to-id-filters-certified-to-reduce-lead-in-drinking-water-epa_june-2024.pdf

NSF - National Sanitation Foundation:

https://www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/articles/lead-drinking-water