The Portland Water Bureau works hard throughout the year to provide Portlanders with some of the best drinking water in the world.

The Water Bureau monitors and maintains Portland’s vast drinking water system around the city and all the way up to your water meter. Beyond the water meter, and into your home, it’s up to you to retain that high quality drinking water.

Luckily, it’s easy! The Water Bureau has simple tips and tricks to ensure that your water stays safe and delicious.

• Clean faucet screens (aerators) a few times a year.

• Do not cook with or drink water from the hot water faucet. Use cold water and heat as needed.

• If a faucet has not been used for several hours, run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using it for drinking or cooking.

• Install a backflow device on your irrigation system to make sure water doesn’t flow back into your potable water supply.

Check out the Water Bureau’s website for more information, and contact the Water Line with any questions or concerns at (503) 823-7525.