There’s no argument: you need water to survive. Comprised of about 70 percent water, our bodies require water to remain healthy and functional. Your peers have probably harped on the importance of hydration throughout your life, reminding you of the benefits hydration has on your skin, organs, energy levels, and so on. Drinking water is classified into different categories based on contents, minerals, and more. Knowing which of the different types of drinking water your household provides can help you determine which water filtration system is right for your home.
Mineral Water
Mineral water stands out for its abundant—you guessed it—minerals. Since it comes from underground sources, this type of water is packed with minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Though mineral-rich water can provide your body with some essentials, excess minerals can make water taste bad. Many homeowners will try to reduce their water’s mineral content to prevent the consequences of hard water on home appliances, skin and hair, and pipelines.
Tap Water
Tap water is one of the most common forms of drinking water—maybe it’s even the first one that comes to mind when you’re thirsty. Tap water comes directly from your faucets and other water fixtures in the home.
Typically, tap water starts as groundwater or surface water, goes through a municipal water filtration system, and then navigates to your home’s main supply. The Environmental Protection Agency has standards for drinking water to ensure the safety of those who drink from their tap.
Spring Water
People who enjoy bottled water are likely consuming spring water. Spring water derives from accumulations of rainwater known as springs. It doesn’t require a public purification process because it’s considered safe for drinking.
Homeowners who prefer spring water will usually invest in water bottles or jugs of it. That said, it’s often designated for drinking and cooking purposes only, while homeowners use municipal water for cleaning and bathing.
Distilled Water
Of the different types of drinking water, distilled water lacks any minerals. This water undergoes a distillation process that rids it of minerals and salts. The process includes boiling the water to eliminate the contaminants.
Water vapor from the process is then captured and cooled into distilled water. Due to its purity, many medical facilities and labs use it regularly. Those who drink distilled water should avoid mineral deficiencies by drinking other types of water, too, and ensuring their meals are rich in minerals.