Understanding Florida’s Water Quality
Florida's tap water is sourced primarily from the vast Floridan Aquifer System, an immense underground reservoir protected by layers of rock. While treated to meet federal and state safety standards, the water often contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium, classifying it as 'very hard'. This geology is the main reason many residents report a strange taste or odor, often metallic or sulfuric.
Municipal treatment facilities also play a role in the water's final taste. To ensure it is free from harmful bacteria, they use disinfectants like chlorine or chloramine, which can leave a noticeable, swimming pool-like aftertaste. Concerns have also been raised about potential contaminants like nitrates and chemicals getting into the aquifer from septic systems and runoff, though this is more prevalent in untreated well water.
The Three Main Options for Drinking Water
Tap Water
For most Floridians served by a public water system, the tap water is legally safe to drink. However, its high mineral content and the use of chemical disinfectants can lead to an unpleasant taste, which is why many locals and visitors avoid it. Some find the taste manageable, especially when it's chilled or used for cooking, but others find it unpalatable. If you're staying in an older building, aging pipes can also add to the metallic taste. Regular consumption of hard water isn't harmful, but its mineral deposits can affect appliances and cause dry skin.
Bottled Water
Bottled water is a popular choice for those who dislike the taste of tap water. In Florida, several options are widely available:
- Zephyrhills: Sourced from Florida's natural springs, this brand is often recommended by residents for its pleasant taste.
- Mountain Valley Spring Water: This highly-awarded spring water is delivered across Florida and is known for its taste and natural minerals.
- Smartwater: A vapor-distilled water with added electrolytes for a clean, crisp taste.
- Alkaline Water: Brands like Eternal Water and Flow Alkaline Spring Water offer water with a naturally higher pH, which some people prefer.
Filtered Water
For a more sustainable and cost-effective solution, filtering your tap water is an excellent option. Depending on your specific needs, several filtration systems are available, each with different capabilities.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: These provide the highest level of purification by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, removing nearly all contaminants, including dissolved solids, chemicals, and heavy metals. Many homeowners install an RO system under their kitchen sink for clean drinking water.
- Whole-House Filtration: A point-of-entry system filters all water entering your home, removing common issues like chlorine and sediment from every faucet.
- Water Softeners: While not a drinking water filter, a water softener removes the minerals that cause hard water, protecting your appliances and improving the feel of your skin and hair.
- Pitcher Filters: Brands like Brita and ZeroWater offer an affordable, temporary solution for improving the taste of drinking water, though they don't remove as many contaminants as other systems.
Comparison of Water Options in Florida
| Feature | Florida Tap Water | Filtered Tap Water (RO System) | Bottled Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Meets regulatory standards, generally safe. | Highly purified; removes vast majority of contaminants. | Varies by brand and source; quality is generally high. |
| Taste | Often has distinct mineral or chemical taste. | Excellent, neutral taste; removes odors. | Varies by type (spring, distilled, alkaline); generally preferred. |
| Cost | Lowest initial cost, but can lead to expensive appliance damage. | Higher initial cost for installation, low cost per gallon over time. | High recurring cost, especially for premium brands. |
| Convenience | Always available from the tap; minimal effort. | Requires filter changes and maintenance; immediate access at faucet. | Requires purchasing and transport; less convenient for large volumes. |
| Sustainability | Very high; reduces plastic waste. | High; significantly reduces reliance on plastic bottles. | Very low; contributes to significant plastic waste. |
| Hard Water | Very hard in most areas; causes scale buildup. | Does not soften water unless a separate system is installed. | Varies by source; most spring waters are also hard. |
Making the Best Choice for Your Needs
For many, the best water to drink in Florida is a matter of personal preference and priority. If taste is your primary concern, bottled spring water like Zephyrhills or purified water like Smartwater might be the simplest solution. However, the recurring cost and environmental impact of plastic bottles are significant drawbacks.
A more sustainable and long-term solution is to invest in a home water filtration system. For the highest quality drinking water, an under-sink reverse osmosis system is a clear winner, removing a wide range of contaminants and dramatically improving taste. For broader water quality issues, a whole-house system can provide cleaner, better-tasting water throughout your entire home.
Before deciding on a filtration system, it's wise to test your home's water to identify specific issues, such as high hardness, chlorine, or potential lead from older plumbing. Many local water treatment companies offer free testing to help you choose the right system. Ultimately, while Florida's municipal water is safe, treating it at home provides the best balance of safety, taste, and sustainability.
Conclusion
While Florida’s municipal tap water is considered safe by federal standards, its mineral content and treatment processes can make it unappealing for many. The best water to drink in Florida depends on individual priorities, with bottled water offering immediate convenience and specific taste profiles, and filtered water providing a long-term, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution. For those seeking the purest, best-tasting water directly from their tap, a reverse osmosis system is the superior choice, effectively tackling the unique challenges of Florida’s water supply.
For more information on water quality, you can consult your local water treatment provider or check out the Environmental Working Group's Tap Water Database for regional specifics.
