As more homeowners explore options like water softeners and filtration systems to improve water quality, we need to consider the legal and health requirements for drinking water in homes.
This article breaks down the minimum legal requirements, practical guidance and health considerations to help you make informed decisions when upgrading your home’s water system.
The Legal Requirement: One Tap for Drinking Water
Under Paragraph 26 of Schedule 2 of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations, all properties supplied with water for domestic use must have at least one tap that is conveniently located and suitable for drawing drinking water. This means that every home must have a drinking water tap, but the regulations do not strictly require it to be connected directly to the incoming mains.
Best Practice: Connect to the Mains Water Supply
According to Water Regs UK, best practice goes a step further. Their guidance recommends that the drinking water tap should ideally be connected directly to the incoming mains supply. Why? Because water that has passed through storage tanks, filters or treatment devices may no longer meet the standards or characteristics of safe, clean drinking water, unless the treatment is specifically designed for that purpose and maintained correctly.
Thinking About a Water Softener or Reverse Osmosis System? Know This First
If you’re planning to install a water softener or a reverse osmosis (RO) system, there are important health guidelines and considerations to be aware of.
- Ion Exchange Water Softeners
These systems work by replacing calcium and magnesium (which cause water hardness) with sodium. While this can help reduce limescale and improve appliance longevity, there’s a catch:
- The sodium content in softened water is higher.
- The Department of Health and Social Care advises against drinking softened water regularly, as it may increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, especially in areas with very hard water.
Homeowner Tip: If you’re installing a water softener, it’s strongly recommended to keep one cold water tap unsoftened, typically in the kitchen, for drinking and cooking.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
RO systems filter water through a membrane to remove contaminants, but in doing so, they also remove naturally occurring minerals that contribute to water’s taste and nutritional value.
According to the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) and World Health Organisation (WHO):
- RO water may not be suitable for regular drinking or cooking unless essential minerals are reintroduced.
- RO systems are better suited for specialist uses (e.g., hydroponics or labs) rather than general household consumption.
Homeowner Tip: If you plan to use an RO system for drinking water, ensure it includes a remineralisation stage, or consider keeping a separate tap connected to untreated mains water.
Final Thoughts for Homeowners
While the law only requires one tap for drinking water, as a responsible homeowner, you should also consider health guidelines and best practices:
- Keep at least one tap on untreated mains water, especially if installing any kind of treatment system.
- Don’t assume that filtered or softened water is automatically better for drinking.
- Speak with a qualified plumbing professional to ensure your system is installed correctly and safely.
Making these informed choices helps protect your family’s health while also giving you the benefits of improved water quality throughout your home.
If you’re planning a water system upgrade always consult a certified professional. You can find a professional plumber in your area by using our Find an APHC Member search.