If you live in Clackamas, Oregon, you may not give much thought to the pipes behind your walls—but you should. Many homes in the area, especially those built before 1986, may still contain plumbing systems that use lead-based components. While federal regulations have significantly reduced lead in plumbing materials, homes with older pipes or fixtures could still pose serious health risks. Here’s what every Clackamas homeowner needs to know about lead in plumbing—and how to keep your family safe.
🚨 The Hidden Dangers of Lead in Your Plumbing
Lead is a toxic metal that can enter your drinking water through corroded pipes, solder, and brass fixtures. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), even low levels of lead exposure can cause severe health issues, particularly in young children and pregnant women. These health risks include:
- Developmental delays
- Learning difficulties
- Behavioral issues
- Damage to kidneys and the nervous system
(Source: EPA – Lead and Drinking Water)
Unfortunately, lead in drinking water is often colorless and tasteless—so the only way to detect it is through testing or replacing old plumbing infrastructure.
🏠 Is Your Clackamas Home at Risk?
Clackamas County is home to thousands of properties built before the Safe Drinking Water Act’s 1986 amendments, which banned the use of lead solder and materials in public water systems and residential plumbing. If your home was constructed before that year, you may be at risk.
Signs your plumbing may contain lead include:
- Dull gray pipes that scratch easily
- Faucets and fittings manufactured before 2014
- Stained or discolored tap water
- Frequent plumbing corrosion or scale buildup
If you’re unsure about the materials in your home, we recommend a professional plumbing inspection to assess the presence of lead and evaluate corrosion risks.
💧 How Does Lead Get Into My Tap Water?
Lead typically enters drinking water when pipes corrode. This is especially common when water has high acidity or low mineral content. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures are the most common sources of lead in drinking water—especially if your home’s plumbing hasn’t been updated in decades.
Clackamas County draws its drinking water from a combination of sources, including the Clackamas River. While public utilities such as the Clackamas River Water District treat and test this water to meet federal standards, they can’t control what happens once the water reaches your home’s plumbing system.
(Source: CDC – Lead in Drinking Water)
🔧 Lead-Free Plumbing Solutions for Clackamas Homes
If your home has older plumbing, there are several solutions to reduce or eliminate lead exposure:
✅ 1. Full or Partial Pipe Replacement
The most effective long-term solution is to replace lead pipes, solder, or brass fixtures with lead-free materials such as PEX or copper. This is especially important if you notice discolored water or experience low water pressure due to corrosion.
✅ 2. Water Filter Installation
Install a NSF-certified water filter that removes lead from drinking water. Filters should be installed at the point of use (typically the kitchen sink) and replaced regularly.
✅ 3. Regular Plumbing Inspections
Routine plumbing inspections can detect corrosion, leaks, and signs of lead contamination before they become hazardous. If you’re unsure where to start, consider scheduling an appointment with a trusted Clackamas plumbing professional.
🧠 Proactive Protection: What You Can Do Now
- Run tap water for 30–60 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking
- Use cold water only—hot water can dissolve lead more easily
- Clean faucet aerators monthly to remove sediment and buildup
These steps can help reduce your exposure, but they are not permanent solutions. For complete peace of mind, removing and replacing lead-bearing materials is essential.
🛠 Need Help Upgrading to Lead-Free Plumbing?
At Einstein Pros Clackamas, we specialize in modern, lead-free plumbing solutions. Whether you need a full pipe replacement or just want peace of mind from a thorough inspection, our licensed professionals are here to help.
🔗 Explore Einstein Pros Clackamas Plumbing Services to learn more.
📚 Sources
- EPA – Lead in Drinking Water
- CDC – Sources of Lead Exposure
- NSF International – Drinking Water Filters
By choosing lead-free plumbing upgrades today, you’re protecting your family’s health, increasing your home’s value, and doing your part for a safer Clackamas community. Contact Einstein Pros Clackamas for expert advice and reliable service—done right the first time.