Wherever we live, we’re served by a regional water company. And, while we pay, we take it for granted that they’ll deliver an unlimited supply of safe, treated water that we can drink and use directly from our taps. But have you ever stopped to think about the journey your drinking water takes from its source to your tap? So, where does your tap water come from?

Where does tap water come from?

Wherever you are in the UK, your tap water journey begins as ‘surface water’ from reservoirs, lakes, and rivers where rainwater is collected and stored. It can also come from ‘groundwater’, natural sources (aquifers) deep underground. Depending on your location, your regional water company will usually use a mix of both sources for customer use within environmental limits.

One of the unique aspects of the UK's tap water system is its regional variation. Different areas use different water sources, contributing to the diverse mineral composition and taste experienced nationwide. Some soft water areas in the south have water with fewer minerals. Bu hard water areas in the north, together with London and the southeast, have water that’s high in minerals like calcium and magnesium.

While London's hard water isn’t bad for you, wherever the majority of your tap water originally comes from, this is the start of its journey, where it will go through rigorous processes to be purified and treated. 

Filtration and screening

So, as your tap water journey begins in the reservoirs, lakes, and rivers, the water also begins its first natural filtering process as it allows any larger sediment particles to settle at the bottom. This initial stage is critical in ensuring the water's quality before it’s collected and undergoes the rigorous purification process that follows.

As the mix of stored surface water and groundwater is collected and makes its way to the nearest treatment plant, it begins a screening process. Screening ensures that any larger natural debris, including leaves, bark, twigs, branches, or even fish or small amphibians, that could cause damage or blockages can be safely removed.

Purification and treatment

Once screened, the water undergoes various processes to remove impurities and contaminants. Essential filtration and chemical treatments, including the addition of a low dose of chlorine, are all part of a thorough purification process. This stage not only guarantees the water's cleanliness but also ensures it meets the highest quality regulatory standards.

Once purified, the water begins its final underground journey through an extensive network of pipes. These pipes are deep beneath roads, homes, and cities and carry the water to its final destination – the tap in your kitchen or bathroom for drinking water that’s 100% safe. 

Fully-filtered water from Thirsty Work

Ensuring the high quality of your tap water is a top priority for every water company, with rigorous testing carried out regularly to monitor for any potential contaminants and deliver a consistently high-quality product. So, the next time you fill your glass and think, “Where does tap water come from ?” think about the journey it’s taken. 

But while safe to drink, some mineral content or treatment processes might leave a bad taste – especially across London or the southeast. To overcome that, our mains-fed water coolers can come fitted with advanced filtration technology that filters out even the smallest impurities that might slip through the net – even trace microplastics.

To find out more and see how we can help you with great-tasting, fully-filtered mains-fed water coolers directly from our London depot, call Thirsty Work and get your free quote or start your 10-day water cooler free trial. Call us on 0208 049 8501, email hello@thirstywork.com, or message us today.