Is Canberra tap water safe?
Yes. Icon Water treats and tests the water supplied to Canberra homes, and it is safe to drink straight from the tap. Icon Water's own advice is that it does not recommend water filters for safety reasons.
So a filter is not about making unsafe water safe. It is about taste, smell and personal preference.
Why does my water taste or smell of chlorine?
Chlorine is added to keep water clean as it travels through the pipes. Some people barely notice it. Others find the taste or smell strong enough that they buy bottled water or avoid drinking from the tap.
This is one of the most common reasons Canberra homeowners call us about filtration.
When a filter makes sense
A filter is worth considering if your household dislikes the taste or smell of tap water, you are buying bottled water regularly, or you want filtered water at every tap, including showers.
If you are happy with your tap water, you may not need one at all. We would rather tell you that than sell you something you will not use.
Under sink or whole home?
An under sink system filters the water at your kitchen tap, which suits most people who mainly care about drinking water.
A whole home system filters water where it enters the house, so every tap and shower gets filtered water.
Any system needs its filters changed on schedule. A filter that is never serviced stops doing its job.
Common questions
Does Canberra need a water filter for safety?
No. Canberra tap water is treated and safe to drink. A filter is mainly about improving taste and smell.
Why does Canberra tap water taste of chlorine?
Chlorine is used to keep the water clean through the supply network. Some people are more sensitive to its taste and smell than others.
Do water filters need servicing?
Yes. Filters must be replaced on schedule to keep working properly.