Can I drink the tap water?
How good is the tap water in Salt Lake City, United States ?
All in all, 41% of folks here drink from the tap.
How good is the tap water in all of United States?
All in all, 31% of folks here drink from the tap.
Can you drink the tap water in Salt Lake City then?
What residents and travelers say
In Salt Lake City, the perception of tap water varies notably among residents and visitors. Many appreciate the water's source—primarily mountain snowmelt—and find the taste generally fresh and clean. However, some report a noticeable chlorine or mineral flavor, which can differ by neighborhood and even building. This variability often stems from differences in local plumbing materials and water age within the distribution system. While a significant number of locals drink directly from the tap without hesitation, others prefer using filters, especially those in older buildings or those sensitive to taste and odor. Filter use ranges from simple carbon pitchers to more advanced reverse osmosis systems. For travelers, tap water is usually safe, but taste preferences and occasional reports of individual building plumbing affecting flavor lead some to opt for bottled water or filters during short stays.
- Taste: Generally good but can have chlorine or mineral notes depending on area and plumbing.
- Filter habits: Common in older buildings or among sensitive individuals; many use carbon or reverse osmosis filters.
- Refill norms: Residents commonly refill reusable bottles from taps, especially with awareness campaigns promoting sustainability.
- Local caveats: Some buildings may have older pipes affecting taste; occasional advisories are issued in specific zones.
For the most reliable, up-to-date information, visitors and residents should consult official sources like the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities and the Utah Department of Environmental Quality. These agencies regularly test and report on water quality and post alerts if any issues arise. Additional guidance on drinking water safety and quality can also be found through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For timely updates, following the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities Twitter feed is recommended.
Further reading on tap water in Salt Lake City
To verify the tap water quality in Salt Lake City, visit the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities website for the latest water quality reports and advisories. Additionally, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality provides statewide water quality information and updates. For national standards and guidelines, check the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Official social media channels of Salt Lake City's water utility may post urgent alerts or maintenance notices. Regularly consulting these authoritative sources ensures you receive accurate and timely water safety information.
- https://www.slc.gov/utilities/water/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities
- https://deq.utah.gov" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Utah Department of Environmental Quality
- https://www.epa.gov/environmental-topics/drinking-water-quality" rel="noopener" target="_blank">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Drinking Water
- https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/index.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Water Quality
- https://twitter.com/SLCWater" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities Twitter