The Taste of Purified Water

Water is often perceived as a simple, tasteless liquid, yet its taste can vary significantly based on its source and treatment. Understanding the differences between purified water and its counterparts as well as the nuances of water’s flavor, may help to transform your hydration experience. In this article, we evaluate the taste of water. What’s the taste of your water? 

What is the Taste of Purified Water & How is it Different From the Rest?

The taste of water is influenced by several factors, including its source, its mineral-content and the treatment process that it undergoes. Purified water, different from spring water and distilled water, has a unique taste and standard of quality. Here’s how and why:

How Source & Treatment of Purified Water Affects Taste

1. Spring Water: spring water is collected from underground water sources, where it naturally flows to the surface. It appeal is in part due to its perceived “natural origin,” but its taste can vary – depending on the geographic location – which dictates which minerals are dissolved into the water, during its journey through rocks and soil.
2. Distilled Water, or deionized water: created by boiling water and condensing the steam back into liquid, is water devoid of dissolved minerals, like sodium, magnesium, calcium and potassium, as well as most contaminants. Its taste is often described as flat or bland due to the absence of such minerals, and its use is mainly for medical and surgical procedures.
3. Purified Water is the best type of drinking water: after all, purified water undergoes a process, known as reverse osmosis, which removes all impurities and contaminants. The taste of purified water is typically clean and neutral, as the dissolved solids, like mercury, arsenic, lead and chromium-6, are removed, as well as bacterial and viral contaminants. Purified water, the ideal standard, provides a clean, neutral taste, making it a versatile option for drinking and is ideal for those concerned about contaminants and health.

The Mineral Content in Purified Water Affects Its Taste

Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sodium contribute to the taste of water. Spring water, rich in naturally occurring minerals, tends to have a more robust flavor compared to purified or distilled water. Purified water, a more subdued flavor, differs from spring water, due to the removal of all mineral contents: the good and the bad ones. Of course, one simple way around this is to opt for a bio-boost, which is to enhance or supplement purified water with an a mineral and electrolyte-boost. 

Poor Quality Water Vs. Ideal Purified Water

Recognizing poor quality water is important for health and safety as well as for enjoyment. Some common signs of poor-quality include:

1. Unpleasant Taste or Odor: A strong chlorine taste, metallic flavor, or sulfur smell can indicate contamination. Non-potable water signs are typically posted when water is not considered safe for human consumption, but when these signs are present, be ever vigilant. 
2. Cloudiness or Sediment: Visible particles or cloudiness in water suggest the presence of impurities or bacterial contamination. Simple water testing can verify the presence of different contaminants. Water with a high TDS reading may indicate the need for water purification.
3. Discoloration: Brown, yellow, or green hues can signal rust, algae, or other contaminants, like rust, and other unwanted dissolved solids.
4. Health Symptoms: Gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach cramps or diarrhea, after drinking water may indicate microbial contamination.

Characteristics of Ideal, Purified Water Are As Follows:

1. Clear and Colorless: idea water is clear and devoid of visible particles and discoloration.
2. Pleasant to Taste: purified water should have a clean, refreshing taste without strong chemical or metallic flavors.
3. Odorless: ideal water should not have any noticeable smells.
4. Safe: purified water is not only free from harmful contaminants and pathogens but is healthy for many reasons, outlined in another article.

How to Improve the Taste of Your Water

If you find the taste of water unappealing, whether or not it is purified water, consider these methods to enhance it:

1. Ensure That You Have A Polishing Filter: while activated carbon filters remove chlorine and other impurities that affect taste, coconut-shell fiber filters help to polish and improve upon the taste of purified water.
2. Add Natural Flavors: Infusing water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables can add a pleasant taste. Popular choices include lemon, cucumber, mint, and berries.
3. Chill Your Water: Cold water can taste more refreshing and mask any subtle off-flavors. Add purified ice to your glass and experience a mock-tail like refreshment while at work or on the go!
4. Opt for Mineral Drops: Adding mineral drops, or opting for a bio-boost filter can improve the taste of purified water by reintroducing essential minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium.
5. Try Going Bottleless: Experiment with different types of reverse osmosis coolers that are plastic-free. Purified water that is stored in plastic tends to have a plastic-infused taste, whereas auto-sanitizing coolers that have steel holding tanks do not. 

Clear, Purified Water is Best

The taste of water is a multifaceted experience influenced by its source, mineral content, and treatment. Understanding the differences between spring, purified, and distilled water can help you choose the best option for your needs. Recognizing signs of poor quality water and knowing how to enhance its taste can ensure you enjoy every sip, keeping you hydrated and healthy. Not sure what is best for you? Ask the experts at Optimum Water Solutions, who provide businesses, schools, hospitals and more with optimal water systems for a range of different needs, always providing: Clearly. Pure. Water.