TVWD is committed to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water. While lead levels consistently fall below federal action levels, we take proactive steps to monitor and minimize any potential risks from lead in your drinking water.
Annual Testing for Lead and Copper
Each year, as part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule, TVWD collects samples from approximately 100 high-risk residential homes. These homes were built between 1983 – 1985. These homes were plumbed with copper pipes using lead solder, which was common before Oregon’s ban on lead solder took effect in June of 1985.
- Water samples are analyzed by an independent, certified laboratory.
- Results are submitted to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and participating customers.
- Lead levels are reported in parts per billion (ppb), and copper levels in parts per million (ppm).
- If more than 10% of samples exceed the action level, corrective actions are required. However, TVWD’s results consistently remain below these thresholds.
| 2025 Lead & Copper Monitoring Results | Number of Homes Tested | Cumulative Results | EPA Action Level |
| TVWD Lead Results | 91 | 4.53 ppb | 15.0 ppb |
| TVWD Copper Results | 91 | 0.08 ppm | 1.3 ppm |
| One home exceeded the 90th percentile level of 15 parts per billion for lead. Zero homes exceeded the copper action level. | |||
Proactive Lead Mitigation Efforts
Service Line Inventory Project
In 2024, TVWD completed an in-depth Service Line Inventory Project, confirming that no lead service lines exist within our system. This project reviewed 62,067 service connections using GIS and statistical analysis, historical records, and physical inspections of randomly selected service lines. Both public and private service lines were verified as "non-lead."
Corrosion Control and New Water Sources
- In 2023, the Portland Water Bureau, one of TVWD’s water suppliers, implemented enhanced corrosion control methods to reduce metals leaching from plumbing. For more information, Portland's Corrosion Control Treatment Project web page.
- In 2026, TVWD will begin delivering water from the Willamette Water Supply System, a high-quality source with lower corrosivity.
Additional Resources for Customers
- TVWD offers free lead testing for all residential customers through a program administered by the Portland Water Bureau. To order a test kit, visit Portland Water Bureau Lead-in-Water Program web page or call (503) 823-7525.
- For childcare providers, please refer to these resources for Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care approved lead testing:
- Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care: Applicable Child Care Rules and Lead Testing Requirements
- Certified Drinking Water Laboratories: Oregon Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program
Related Questions
The primary source of lead in drinking water is lead solder used in copper plumbing installed before 1986, as well as brass fixtures and components. When water sits in these home plumbing systems for several hours, lead can dissolve into water. In this case, the first-used water, such as in the morning or after extended inactivity, is more likely to contain lead.
Lead can cause significant health problems when ingested through drinking water or other sources. It can damage the brain and kidneys and interfere with the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. Infants, young children, and pregnant women are at the greatest risk of harm from lead exposure. In children, even low levels of lead have been linked to developmental delays and lower IQ.
If you are concerned about lead exposure, consult your physician for advice and testing options. For more information about the health effects of lead, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Lead Information Page.
Flush Your Home Plumbing
Before using water for drinking or cooking, run the tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, or until the water feels colder. This flushes out water that may have been sitting in your pipes and potentially contains lead.
Use Cold Water Only
- For Cooking and Baby Formula: Always use cold, fresh water. Hot water dissolves lead more easily, so avoid using it for drinking, cooking, or preparing baby formula.
Test Your Water for Lead
TVWD offers free in-home lead testing kits for residential customers via the Portland Water Bureau. These kits include additional information about reducing lead exposure. To request a kit:
- Visit the Portland Water Bureau's Request a Lead Testing Kit Web page
- Call (503) 988-4000.
Consider Using a Lead-Reducing Filter
If tests reveal elevated lead levels in your water:
- Purchase a filter certified for lead removal by NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation, maintenance, and timely filter replacement to ensure continued effectiveness.
- Important: Boiling water does not remove lead – it can actually concentrate it further.
Test Your Child for Lead Exposure
The only way to determine if your child has been exposed to lead is through a blood test. Consult your physician, visit Leadline.org , or call (503) 988-4000 to find out how to have your child tested for lead.
Clean Your Faucet Aerators
Particles containing lead from solder or household plumbing can collect in faucet aerators. Clean aerators every few months to remove trapped particles and minimize exposure.
Choose Low-Lead Fixtures
When replacing plumbing fixtures:
- Look for products with the lowest lead content.
- Since January 2014, all pipes, fittings, and fixtures are required to contain less than 0.25% lead.