Using tap water to brew coffee is not recommended. It can contain unwanted components, such as heavy metals and chlorine (not to be confused with chloride), which negatively affect the taste of the drink. Many people describe tap water as hard, rough, or dirty – characteristics that will also be found in the brewed coffee.
Water makes up about 98.5% of a filter coffee and 90% of an espresso , so if the water you use doesn't taste good, it's likely that the coffee won't be good either. Also, municipal water is only treated to be safe for drinking, but chlorine levels and mineral composition can vary, making it difficult to get a consistent cup of coffee.
Furthermore, the mineral composition of the water influences the build-up of limescale in your coffee making equipment. Given the high cost of coffee machines, preventing damage to them by using the right water is essential.
How to make better coffee at home?
The simplest solution is to use a product specifically designed for brewing coffee. Third Wave Water offers mineral packets that can be added to distilled water, creating water optimized for your preferences. Packets are available for espresso, light roast, low-acid coffee, and more.
If you don't want to buy distilled water from the store, you can use a filtration system, such as ZeroWater , to turn tap water into distilled water, perfect for making coffee.
What are the recommended characteristics of the water used in making coffee?
According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) , ideal water for coffee should have the following characteristics:
- Clean and chlorine-free
- General hardness : between 50-150 ppm
- Carbonate hardness : between 30-50 ppm
- pH : between 6 and 8
By following these standards, you will get a well-balanced coffee that highlights your favorite flavors. Choosing the right water is an essential step to turning every cup of coffee into a special experience!