The Portland Water Bureau’s 2025 Drinking Water Quality Report, which outlines testing results for 2024, confirms that Portland’s tap water remains among the cleanest and safest across the U.S. for nearly 1 million customers. Here are the most important highlights you need to know:
1. 🔬 Over 200 Contaminants Tested & 11,000+ Samples
- In 2024, Portland conducted testing for more than 200 regulated and unregulated contaminants, using around 11,000 samples and over 49,000 lab tests.
- This rigorous testing ensures compliance with both EPA and Oregon Health Authority standards.
🔗 See how our Clackamas plumbing experts interpret water test data.
2. No PFAS or Lithium Detected
- In response to the EPA’s new rule testing for 29 PFAS compounds and lithium, none were found in Bull Run or groundwater sources.
- PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are linked to long-term health risks.
🔗 Learn how plumbing upgrades protect against contaminants.
3. Outstanding Microbiological Safety
- Giardia was detected only in trace amounts (0–0.04 cysts/L), well within EPA limits.
- Total coliform bacteria appeared in just 0–0.4% of distribution samples—again with no violations reported.
🔗 Check your plumbing for signs of microbial growth.
4. Stable Disinfection & Byproducts
- Portland uses chloramine (chlorine + ammonia) to disinfect water.
- Chlorine: 1.94–1.96 ppm (EPA max: 4 ppm)
- Disinfection byproducts (THMs and HAA5): well below federal limits
🔗 Discover how water treatment affects your plumbing.
5. Excellent Chemistry: pH, Hardness, TDS
- pH levels: 8.0–9.0 — helps prevent corrosion in old plumbing
- Hardness: 7–11 ppm — considered “soft water”
- TDS: ~50 ppm — far below the max of 500 ppm
🔗 See why Portland’s soft water helps your water heater.
6. Heavy Metals Well Below Limits
- Contaminants like arsenic, barium, fluoride, nitrate all tested well below health limits.
- Thanks to a corrosion control system, lead levels remain safely under the EPA’s new action level.
7. Radon & Unregulated Contaminants Addressed
- Radon from groundwater ranged from 131–390 pCi/L—still below EPA’s advisory levels.
- Manganese and sodium also measured safe levels in 2024 testing.
8. Bull Run Filtration on the Way
- Portland is currently constructing a new water filtration facility (due 2027), aimed at enhancing removal of Cryptosporidium and other particulates.
Why This Matters for Portland Homeowners
- Tap water is safe, soft, and low in harmful chemicals.
- Soft water = less mineral buildup in appliances and plumbing.
- Upcoming infrastructure upgrades mean improved quality for years to come.
Final Thoughts? Trust Einstein Pros!
Portland’s 2024 water testing confirms a city-wide win for public health and plumbing systems alike. From zero PFAS detections to low lead and improved disinfection control, the report reflects careful stewardship and forward-thinking upgrades.
If you’re concerned about how your home’s pipes interact with city water—especially in older homes—Einstein Pros Clackamas is here to help. We bring localized expertise and proactive plumbing care for your peace of mind.