Installing a separate tap for unsoftened drinking water is recommended in the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, endorsed by the Government Regulators WRAS and the water-softener supply industry through the UKWTA.
It’s safe for almost everyone to drink softened water. The exceptions are babies and anyone who follows a low sodium or sodium-free diet on medical advice. They should drink water from a hard water (unsoftened water) drinking tap.
For most though, it’s a matter of preference whether you choose to drink softened water. Some people prefer it, while others like the taste of hard water better.
When we install your Harvey water softener, we also install a separate drinking water tap at the same time, so you can choose to drink either softened or unsoftened water.
Here’s some more information to help you decide if you need a separate drinking water tap.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) doesn’t formally have a statement on recommending separate water taps. Their position on drinking softened water is: “There are no firm conclusions on whether it poses long-term health risks so no health-based guidelines are proposed.”
In over 90 years, there has never been a reported health-related problem associated with a water softener and drinking softened water. Find out more about drinking softened water here.
View our range of water filters – they’re all compatible with our drinking water taps. We offer both active carbon and So Clear filters, so that you can keep your water clear of unwanted minerals. Find out more today
