Tap water is produced in a treatment facility by removing contaminants to deliver drinking water that is pure enough for human consumption according to strict federal guidelines. That water is then fed to homes and buildings through a municipal distribution system.

An issue often raised about tap water is its taste. This usually comes from a residual odor of the chlorination process, or from minerals naturally present in the water source.

Another element which may affect the quality of tap water is a building’s indoor plumbing. Depending on which materials the pipes are made of, and how old they are, tap water could collect and transport traces of rust or other contaminants.