Tap Water & Cannabis: Common Problems, Solutions, and Alternatives

Common Problems with Tap Water​

Tap water can sometimes have issues that affect its quality, taste, and safety. Some common problems with tap water include:

1. Contaminants: Tap water can contain various contaminants like bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals. These contaminants can affect the taste, smell, and safety of the water.
2. Hard water: High levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium can lead to hard water. Hard water can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances, as well as issues with soap and detergent effectiveness.
3. Chlorine taste and smell: Water treatment plants often use chlorine to disinfect water, which can leave an unpleasant taste and smell in tap water.

The Best Filter: Reverse Osmosis​

To address these common problems, a Reverse Osmosis (R/O) filtration system is an effective solution. R/O filtration works by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, which removes contaminants and impurities. The result is cleaner, safer, and better-tasting water.

Adding a Permeate Pump to Reduce Waste Water​

One downside of R/O systems is that they can produce a significant amount of wastewater. To minimize this waste, consider adding a permeate pump to your R/O system. A permeate pump increases the efficiency of the filtration process, reducing the amount of wastewater produced and conserving water.

Alternatives to Tap Water​

If you're looking for alternatives to tap water, consider the following options:

1. Distilled water: Distilled water is produced through a process that removes impurities by boiling water and collecting the steam. This process results in water that is free of contaminants and minerals.
2. Rainwater: Collecting and using rainwater can be a sustainable alternative to tap water. However, it's essential to properly filter and treat rainwater before using it for drinking or other household purposes.

A Note for Hydroponic Mediums​

While R/O water can be an excellent solution for many situations, it may not be suitable for all applications. For instance, if you're using a hydroponic medium for growing plants, using plain R/O water for flushing may not be ideal. This is because R/O water lacks the necessary minerals and nutrients for optimal plant growth. In such cases, consider using a nutrient solution specifically designed for hydroponics to ensure your plants receive the proper nutrition.