Tap water in Orlando is generally considered safe to drink according to both the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Local utilities, such as the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) and Orange County Utilities, regularly test and treat the water to meet or exceed all federal and state safety standards under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The water is sourced primarily from the Floridan Aquifer and undergoes advanced treatment processes, including ozone treatment, to ensure safety and improve taste and odor. However, despite meeting legal safety standards, there are some potential concerns with contaminants such as traces of PFAS/PFOA chemicals, disinfection byproducts, and heavy metals like lead. These contaminants may occasionally be present at low levels that are still within regulatory limits. Water quality can also be influenced by older plumbing in individual homes, which can introduce contaminants like lead or copper after water leaves the municipal supply. For those concerned about taste or potential contaminants, using a water filter is recommended for additional purification. Overall, drinking tap water in Orlando is safe, but filtering can provide peace of mind and improve drinking quality. In summary:
- Orlando tap water meets all official safety standards.
- Potential contaminants exist but are generally at low levels.
- Taste issues are sometimes reported, often improved by filtration.
- Using a filter can help reduce exposure to contaminants such as PFAS, lead, and chlorine.
Therefore, one can confidently drink tap water in Orlando, though personal preference for filtered water is common.
