Metallic taste usually comes from household plumbing, not the mains supply. In pre-1970 homes, it is worth investigating properly.
Lead pipes were standard before 1970. Lead has no taste at low levels but can leach into water. Request a free lead test from your water company — they are legally required to provide one.
Copper pipes (most common). Most UK homes built from the 1950s to 1990s have copper supply pipes. When water is slightly acidic (soft water areas especially), it can leach small amounts of copper — giving water a metallic or penny-like taste. Most pronounced after water has stood overnight in pipes.
Lead pipes (pre-1970 homes). Lead supply pipes were standard until the 1970s. Lead itself has no distinct taste at typical concentrations, but the metallic taste from corroding lead pipes often accompanies other dissolved metals. Lead is a cumulative hormone disruptor with no safe threshold — this is the most important cause to rule out.
Galvanised iron pipes. Some older properties have galvanised iron pipes which corrode over time, releasing iron with a rust-like metallic taste. These pipes are typically found in pre-war properties.
New plumbing or fittings. Newly installed copper or brass fittings can release elevated metal levels for several weeks until the plumbing beds in.
Copper at UK mains water concentrations is generally not dangerous to healthy adults, though high chronic intake is undesirable. The legal limit is 2 mg/L. Metallic taste from copper usually occurs below levels of health concern.
Lead is a different matter. There is no safe level of lead exposure. The UK legal limit is 10 µg/L, but the WHO recommends reducing exposure as far as possible. Infants, young children, and pregnant women are most vulnerable.
Your water company may contribute financially to replacing lead supply pipes — it is worth asking. The government's Get the Lead Out scheme has helped fund thousands of lead pipe replacements.
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Frequently asked questions
Lead pipes are dull grey and feel soft — a coin will easily scratch the surface. They are often found as the supply pipe running under the floor from the street to the kitchen. Properties built before 1970 are most at risk. Your water company can test your water for lead for free — they are legally required to do so on request.
It depends on the source. Copper at UK water chemistry levels is generally not dangerous but is unpleasant. Lead is a hormone disruptor with no safe level — if you live in a pre-1970 property and notice metallic taste, take it seriously and request a free lead test from your water company.
Water that sits overnight in your household copper or lead pipes accumulates dissolved metals. Always run the cold tap for at least 30 seconds before drinking or using water for cooking, especially in the morning. Never use water from the hot tap for drinking or cooking.
Yes, but only with a filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction. Standard carbon jug filters (like Brita) do not reliably remove lead. Under-sink reverse osmosis filters are effective. However, the most important step is identifying and replacing lead pipes — your water company may contribute to replacement costs.
Other common problems
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