Water for coffee

Is it okay to brew with tap water?

Tap water isn't recommended for brewing. First, it contains components undesirable for coffee brewing. This usually includes heavy metals and chlorine (not to be confused with chloride). Most people dislike drinking tap water, describing it using negative words such as harsh, rough, or dirty. Water makes up approximately 98.5% of a filter brew, or 90% of an espresso. Therefore, if the water you brew with isn't enjoyable to drink, your coffee won't be either.

It's also worth understanding that your municipal water source is only concerned with the water being safe to drink. Chlorine levels vary based on need, and mineral composition will rarely be consistent; it's difficult to brew with consistency if your water is changing regularly. 

Lastly, the mineral composition of your water determines the potential for limescale buildup in your equipment. You are likely to find that Toronto tap water has the potential for limescale buildup. It's much easier to prevent limescale than to remove it.

What’s the easiest way to brew better coffee at home?

There's a great product on the market designed to make this easy: Third Wave Water. These are mineral packets — just add one to 4L of distilled water. You now have water designed to brew coffee with. They offer packets for espresso, light roast, low acid, and more. You can avoid purchasing bottled distilled water by using a ZeroWater filter.

What are the recommended characteristics for water for coffee?

These are the recommendations from the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association):

Clean

Chlorine-free

General hardness: 50–150 ppm

Carbonate hardness: 30–50 ppm

pH: 6–8

Recommended Products: Filter Third Wave Water and Espresso Third Wave Water