Types of Water
A Comprehensive Guide for Health-Conscious Consumers
Water is essential for life, and understanding the various types of water available can help you make informed choices for your health and hydration needs.
Explore the wide range of water options available from Primo Water® and enjoy the best in hydration and taste.
Which Service is Right for Me?
Lets Dive In
Tap water quality refers to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water as it comes out of your faucet. Tap water quality varies based on locality, however, they must all adhere to water quality standards and regulations. Key parameters that define water quality include the presence of contaminants, pH levels, and hardness. Ensuring high-quality tap water means it should be free from harmful substances and safe for everyday use.
Different Types of Drinking Water
Purified Water
Purified water undergoes a rigorous filtration process to remove impurities and contaminants, ensuring it's safe for consumption. The purification process can include methods like reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization. This type of water is ideal for daily hydration, cooking, and making beverages. It provides a reliable source of clean water, free from harmful chemicals and pollutants, making it a preferred choice for health-conscious individuals. At Primo Water®, our purified water meets the highest standards for purity and taste.
Spring Water
Spring water is sourced from natural springs and retains its natural minerals, offering a refreshing and crisp taste. This water is collected directly from the source, ensuring that it remains pure and untouched by external contaminants. The natural minerals present in spring water, such as calcium and magnesium, contribute to its distinct taste and potential health benefits. It's a popular choice for those who prefer water with a natural mineral profile. Primo Water® provides premium spring water that is both delicious and hydrating.
Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular types of drinking water, which some believe can help neutralize acid in the body and improve hydration. Typically, alkaline water has a pH level between 8 and 9, compared to the neutral pH of 7 found in most tap and bottled water. This higher pH level is achieved through a process that adds minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Primo Water® offers high-quality alkaline water that is perfect for those seeking enhanced hydration and potential health benefits, such as improved digestion and increased energy levels.
Distilled Water
Distilled water is produced by boiling water and then condensing the steam back into liquid form, removing impurities and minerals. This process ensures that distilled water is free from any dissolved solids, making it one of the purest forms of water available. It's often used in appliances that require mineral-free water, such as steam irons, humidifiers, and medical devices. Additionally, distilled water is preferred for certain scientific and industrial applications due to its purity. Primo Water® provides distilled water that is pure and versatile for various uses.
Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is carbonated, giving it a fizzy and refreshing quality. The carbonation process involves infusing water with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. Sparkling water can be enjoyed plain or flavored, and it offers a bubbly alternative to still water. It's a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of sparkle in their hydration, and it can also be a healthier substitute for sugary sodas. Primo Water® offers sparkling water that is perfect for a refreshing and enjoyable drinking experience, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go.
Mineral Water
Mineral water contains natural minerals and is often sourced from mineral springs. This type of water is rich in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which can contribute to your overall health. The minerals are naturally occurring and give the water a unique taste that many people find refreshing. Mineral water is often considered a premium type of water due to its potential health benefits and distinct flavor profile. It can be a great addition to a healthy diet, providing essential minerals that support various bodily functions.
Specialty Water Types
Artesian Water
Artesian water comes from a well that taps a confined aquifer. The pressure in the aquifer pushes the water to the surface naturally, reducing the need for mechanical pumping. This type of water is known for its purity and natural mineral content, as it is protected from surface contaminants by layers of rock and soil. Artesian water is prized for its clean taste and the beneficial minerals it contains. It's a premium water choice for those who appreciate naturally sourced, high-quality water.
Available only in Canada:
Shop Artesian Water
Fluoridated Water
Fluoridated water has added fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is often added to public water supplies to promote dental health. Drinking fluoridated water can reduce the risk of cavities and improve overall oral hygiene. This type of water is commonly provided by municipal water systems and is supported by numerous health organizations for its benefits. Primo Water® offers fluoridated water to help support your dental health alongside your hydration needs.
Available only in Canada:
Shop Fluoridated Water
Infused Water
Infused water is regular water enhanced with natural flavors from fruits, herbs, or vegetables. It's a delicious and healthy way to increase your water intake while enjoying added flavors and potential health benefits. Infused water can be made with ingredients like lemon, cucumber, mint, berries, and more, each bringing unique vitamins, antioxidants, and refreshing tastes. This type of water is perfect for those looking to add variety to their hydration routine without added sugars or artificial flavors.
Environmental and Natural Types of Water
Tap Water
Tap water is supplied by local municipalities and is treated to meet safety standards set by regulatory bodies. While it's readily accessible and convenient, the quality of tap water can vary depending on the location and the treatment processes used. Tap water is typically chlorinated to kill bacteria and may contain trace amounts of minerals. For those who prefer an extra layer of safety, tap water can be further filtered at home to remove any remaining impurities.
Well Water
Well water is drawn from a private well that taps into groundwater. Its quality can vary significantly based on the surrounding environment and requires regular testing to ensure safety. Well water is not treated by municipal systems, so it's crucial for well owners to test for contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, and heavy metals. Proper maintenance and regular testing can ensure that well water remains a safe and reliable source of hydration for households.
Rain Water
Rainwater is collected from rain and can be used for various purposes, including irrigation and even drinking if properly filtered. Collecting rainwater is a sustainable practice that reduces reliance on municipal water supplies. To make rainwater safe for drinking, it must be filtered and purified to remove contaminants. This method of water collection is eco-friendly and can be particularly useful in areas with limited access to other water sources.
Hard Water
Hard water contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. While not harmful to health, it can cause scaling in pipes and appliances and might affect the taste of water. Hard water can also make it difficult to achieve a good lather with soap, leading to potential issues with cleaning and bathing. Water softeners are often used to treat hard water, removing the excess minerals and reducing scaling and buildup.
Eighty-five percent of the United States has hard water, which means it has high mineral content7. These minerals, along with other particulates or contaminants, can affect the color, taste or smell of untreated water. Unfortunately, off-taste or cloudy water is not unusual in home or workplace settings.
The answer to these concerns is water filtration. Primo Water North America® offers under-the-sink, countertop or freestanding filtration solutions for any home or office – small or large – all designed to improve the safety, purity and taste of your water.
Soft Water
Soft water has low concentrations of minerals and is often treated to remove hardness. This type of water is It's gentle on appliances and better for cleaning and personal care. Soft water prevents the buildup of scale in pipes and appliances, extending their lifespan and improving efficiency. It also makes soaps and detergents more effective, resulting in cleaner dishes, laundry, and skin.
Types of Bottled and Packaged Water
Bottled Water
Bottled water is commercially available and can come in various types, including spring, purified, and mineral water. It's convenient and portable, making it a popular choice for hydration on the go. Bottled water is subject to stringent quality controls and is available in multiple sizes to suit different needs. Primo Water® offers a range of bottled water options to provide you with clean and refreshing hydration wherever you are.
Case Packs
Case packs are bulk packages of bottled water, providing a convenient and economical option for families or small businesses. They are easy to store and perfect for ensuring you always have a supply of water on hand. Case packs are ideal for those who need a consistent and reliable source of water without frequent trips to the store. Primo Water® offers case packs that deliver quality and convenience, ensuring you never run out of fresh water.
Filtered and Purified Water Types
Filtered Water
As mentioned earlier, purified water undergoes a thorough filtration process to remove impurities. It's one of the cleanest and safest types of water for everyday use. Purified water is ideal for those who are concerned about contaminants in their drinking water and prefer a reliable source of clean hydration. Primo Water® offers purified water that is perfect for drinking, cooking, and making beverages.
View Water Filtration Services
Purified Water
As mentioned earlier, purified water undergoes a thorough filtration process to remove impurities. It's one of the cleanest and safest types of water for everyday use. Purified water is ideal for those who are concerned about contaminants in their drinking water and prefer a reliable source of clean hydration. Primo Water® offers purified water that is perfect for drinking, cooking, and making beverages.
Which Primo® Water Service is Right for Me?
Not sure which service best fits your needs? Let us help you find the perfect solution. Answer a few simple questions and discover the ideal Primo Water service for you.