From Groundwater to Tap Water

Where Does Our Tap Water Come From?

In Switzerland, households receive tap water from local water utilities. These utilities treat so-called raw water sourced from various origins. After treatment, this raw water becomes drinking water. Depending on the region, approximately 80% of the raw water for tap water production comes from groundwater, including spring water, while the remaining 20% is sourced from lakes and rivers. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The Water Cycle

Water is in a continuous cycle.

Solar radiation causes water from oceans, lakes, and rivers to evaporate and rise as water vapor into the atmosphere. Due to temperature differences, the vapor condenses into water droplets, forming clouds. These droplets accumulate until they become too heavy and fall as precipitation. This precipitation returns to oceans, lakes, and rivers.

A significant portion of the rain infiltrates the soil, forming groundwater, which in turn feeds rivers and lakes. In winter, when temperatures are low, the water droplets in the clouds crystallize into snowflakes, which fall and contribute to glacier formation. ❄️ With renewed solar radiation, the water evaporates, and the cycle begins anew.

From Groundwater to Drinking Water

To extract raw water, groundwater is pumped to the surface and transported via pipelines to water treatment plants. If the raw water originates from springs, lakes, or rivers, it is also conveyed to the treatment plants through pipelines. There, the water is purified and processed into tap water. After treatment, the tap water is typically stored in reservoirs before being distributed to households.

The Quality of Swiss Tap Water

Tap water in Switzerland is of very high quality and meets strict guidelines regarding hygiene and safety. Like any natural product, tap water contains trace substances, but due to stringent regulations on drinking water treatment, their concentration is at such a low level that it can be consumed without hesitation. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Avoiding Potential Contaminants

Despite the high quality, reports indicate that in some regions, there can occasionally be contamination. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} 🧪

The causes are varied, but one weak point is the water pipes, which have a limited lifespan and must be regularly maintained or replaced. During these operations or due to the age of the pipes, contamination can occur, affecting water quality. In Switzerland, homeowners are legally obligated to ensure the quality of tap water and provide tenants with flawless drinking water.

Regular water analyses, which can be easily conducted with our water analysis kits and rapid tests, help quickly detect heavy metals, pollutants, and other risk factors. With these tools, targeted actions can be taken to ensure water quality. 💧