The pH of tap water in Portland, Oregon, USA, typically ranges between 8.0 and 9.0, making it slightly alkaline. This alkalinity is a result of the addition of sodium hydroxide to the Sebago Lake water, which naturally has a pH of around 6.7. This adjustment is done to reduce the corrosion of water pipes in the distribution system and in homes.
Understanding the pH of Portland’s Tap Water
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 are considered acidic, while values above 7 are basic or alkaline. Portland’s tap water, with a pH between 8.0 and 9.0, is slightly alkaline.
This alkalinity is intentionally added to the water to address the natural acidity of the Sebago Lake water. By increasing the pH, the water becomes less corrosive, which helps to protect the water distribution system and household plumbing from deterioration.
Water Quality in Portland
Portland’s water is regularly tested for over 90 substances, and it meets or surpasses all federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards. However, the EWG Tap Water Database has identified the presence of several contaminants in the city’s water supply, including:
| Contaminant | Detected Level |
|---|---|
| Toxaphene | Present |
| trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene | Present |
| Tribufos | Present |
| Trichloroethylene | Present |
| Vinyl chloride | Present |
| Xylenes (total) | Present |
It’s important to note that while these contaminants were detected, the Portland Water Bureau has complied with health-based drinking water standards from April 2019 to March 2021.
Addressing Contaminants in Tap Water
To address the presence of these contaminants, residents can use various water filters, such as:
- Activated carbon filters: These filters can effectively remove a wide range of organic contaminants, including some of the compounds found in Portland’s tap water.
- Reverse osmosis (RO) filters: RO filters can remove a variety of contaminants, including heavy metals, pesticides, and other organic compounds.
- Ion exchange filters: These filters can remove certain inorganic contaminants, such as nitrates and heavy metals.
By using these types of filters, residents can improve the overall quality of their tap water and reduce their exposure to the contaminants identified in the EWG Tap Water Database.
Lead in Tap Water
In addition to the contaminants mentioned, some residents may be concerned about the presence of lead in their tap water. To address this, Multnomah County offers free lead test kits for residents. Regular testing and maintenance of household plumbing can also help ensure the safety of tap water.
Staying Informed and Engaged
Residents of Portland who are concerned about the quality of their tap water can stay informed by regularly checking the Portland Water Bureau’s water quality reports and the EWG Tap Water Database. Additionally, they can contact local officials to push for cleaner water and hold them accountable for water quality.
By understanding the pH and contaminants in Portland’s tap water, residents can make informed decisions about their water usage and take steps to ensure the safety and quality of their drinking water.
Conclusion
The pH of tap water in Portland, USA, typically ranges between 8.0 and 9.0, making it slightly alkaline. While the water meets federal drinking water standards, it does contain some contaminants that can be addressed through the use of appropriate water filters. Residents can also stay informed and engaged with local officials to ensure the continued quality and safety of their tap water.