Zinc Water Test

Zinc in Drinking Water: An Essential Mineral That Can Become a Problem at the Tap

Zinc is an essential trace mineral the human body needs in small amounts for immune function and overall health. In drinking water, however, elevated zinc is rarely a source water issue. It is almost always a sign of corrosion happening inside your own plumbing system, most commonly from galvanized pipes or fittings that were coated with zinc to resist rust.

Is Zinc in My Water Harmful?

At the levels typically found in residential plumbing zinc is more of an aesthetic and plumbing health indicator than an acute danger. The most common symptom of elevated zinc exposure is a noticeable metallic taste. At higher concentrations zinc has been associated with stomach cramps and vomiting, and chronic elevated intake can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb copper, which over time can contribute to a copper deficiency and related anemia.

Where Does Zinc in Drinking Water Come From?

The most common source is galvanized plumbing. Galvanized pipes, fittings, and water storage tanks are coated in zinc specifically to prevent corrosion, but as that coating breaks down over years of use, zinc leaches into the water passing through it. Homes with older galvanized plumbing, particularly those built before the 1960s when galvanized pipe was standard, are the most likely to show elevated zinc. Corrosive water with low pH accelerates this leaching process, so a zinc result is often a useful clue that your home’s plumbing or water chemistry deserves a closer look.

How It Works

Order your test and we will mail you a sample collection kit with easy to follow instructions. Collect a water sample from your tap and send it back to our in-house laboratory. Results are delivered within 1 to 2 business days from the date your sample arrives at our lab.

Understanding Your Results

Every test includes a free consultation with one of our in-house water quality experts. If zinc comes back elevated we will walk you through what it likely indicates about your plumbing and water chemistry and what your best next steps are.

This test is recommended for homeowners with older galvanized plumbing, anyone who has noticed a metallic taste in their water, households that have previously tested positive for corrosive water or elevated pH related metals, and anyone who wants a clearer picture of what their plumbing may be contributing to their water quality.