If your tap water smells a little like a swimming pool, you're not imagining it. Most city water in Northern California is disinfected with chlorine or chloramine before it reaches your home.
That's a good thing on the way to you. It keeps bacteria from growing as water travels through miles of pipe. But once the water comes out of your faucet, its job is done, and a lot of families would rather not drink it, cook with it or shower in it.
Chlorine vs. chloramine
Chlorine is the classic disinfectant. It works well, but it breaks down fairly quickly, and it's what gives water that familiar pool taste and smell.
Chloramine is chlorine combined with ammonia. It lasts longer in the pipes, which is why many larger water systems use it, including several in the Bay Area.
What you'll notice at home
Mostly the taste. It can make water, coffee, tea and even ice taste off. In the shower, many people notice drier skin and hair, and warm water lets more of the chlorine smell into the air.
It also changes habits. Kids who don't like the taste tend to drink less water, and a lot of families end up buying bottled water instead. If you keep fish, chloramine is harmful to them, so tap water has to be treated before it goes in the tank.
Whole-home filtration
A properly sized whole-home filtration system treats the water where it enters your house, so every faucet, shower and appliance gets cleaner, better-tasting water. For homes on chloramine, we use filter media made to handle it, not just basic chlorine.
Not sure which one your city uses? We'll check during a free in-home water test and show you the results at your kitchen table.
Find out what's in your water. Free.
Our free in-home water test takes about 30 minutes, with no obligation. We'll explain your results and show you your options.
