Tap water

Tap water, also known as municipal water or running water, is water supplied to a tap (valve) inside the built environment. The primary uses of tap water are for drinking, washing, cooking, and toilet flushing.

Source and Treatment

Tap water is typically sourced from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, or from groundwater sources such as wells. The water is then treated at a water treatment plant to remove contaminants and make it safe for human consumption. The treatment process typically includes filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection with chemicals such as chlorine or chloramine.

Quality and Safety

The quality and safety of tap water can vary greatly depending on the source and the treatment process. In many developed countries, tap water is subject to strict quality standards and is generally safe to drink. However, in some developing countries, tap water may be contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or chemicals. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides guidelines for drinking-water quality that many countries use as a basis for their own regulations.

Environmental Impact

The use of tap water has a lower environmental impact compared to bottled water, as it requires less energy for production and transportation. However, the treatment and distribution of tap water can still have significant environmental impacts, including water wastage, energy consumption, and the release of treatment chemicals into the environment.

Controversies and Issues

There are several controversies and issues related to tap water. These include the fluoridation of tap water, the use of chlorine for disinfection, the presence of lead in tap water, and the privatization of water services.

See Also

• Bottled water
• Water pollution
• Water treatment
• Water supply