San Antonio Water Quality & Filtration Guide

Understanding San Antonio’s Water Supply

San Antonio’s primary water source is the Edwards Aquifer, a vast underground reservoir that naturally filters groundwater. The city also supplements its supply with water from the Carrizo Aquifer, Medina River, Canyon Lake, and Trinity Aquifer. While these sources provide a stable water supply, they also introduce natural and man-made contaminants.

The city's water is treated before distribution, but common concerns remain, including hard water, chlorine, and potential heavy metals. Homeowners may notice issues such as scale buildup in plumbing, unpleasant tastes or odors, and concerns about long-term exposure to disinfection byproducts.

Common Water Quality Issues in San Antonio

Hard Water

San Antonio has very high levels of calcium and magnesium, making it one of the hardest water regions in Texas. Hard water leads to scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reduces the efficiency of water heaters, and causes issues like dry skin, dull hair, and soap scum in showers. The best solution for hard water is a water softener, which removes these minerals and prevents scale-related damage.

Chlorine & Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)

San Antonio’s municipal water treatment includes chlorine to kill bacteria and viruses, but this process also creates disinfection byproducts that can affect taste and odor. Some residents experience skin irritation or notice a strong chemical smell in their tap water. A carbon filtration system effectively removes chlorine and improves water taste.

Lead & Heavy Metals

Lead contamination is not widespread in San Antonio but can be an issue in older homes with outdated plumbing. Other heavy metals, such as arsenic and iron, can also be present in some areas. A reverse osmosis (RO) system is the most effective solution for removing these contaminants.

Bacteria & Microorganisms in Well Water

Homes using private wells face unique water challenges, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are not removed by city treatment processes. Well water should be tested regularly, and homeowners can use a UV purification system to eliminate bacteria without chemicals.

Water Filtration Solutions for San Antonio Homes

Water Softeners

Water softeners are the best solution for San Antonio’s hard water problem. These systems remove calcium and magnesium, preventing scale buildup in plumbing and appliances. Soft water also makes cleaning easier, improves soap lathering, and helps keep skin and hair feeling softer.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems

Reverse osmosis provides ultra-pure drinking water by removing contaminants like lead, arsenic, fluoride, and chlorine. RO systems are commonly installed under the kitchen sink or as whole-house systems for those looking for the highest level of filtration.

Carbon Filtration

Carbon filters are designed to remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and bad odors from water. This type of filtration is ideal for improving taste and reducing chemical exposure from treated municipal water.

UV Water Purification

For homeowners using well water, UV purification is an effective method for killing bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Unlike chlorine, UV disinfection does not change the taste or smell of water.

Whole-House Filtration

A whole-house filtration system treats all water entering the home, removing sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants. This option is best for homeowners looking for a comprehensive water treatment solution that covers drinking, bathing, and laundry water.

How to Check Your Water Quality

Water quality varies by neighborhood, and even homes in the same area may have different contamination levels depending on plumbing and water sources. The best way to determine what’s in your water is through a professional water test or by reviewing a water quality report specific to your ZIP code.

Homeowners who want to improve their water quality should start by identifying their biggest concerns, such as hardness, chlorine, or potential heavy metals, and choose the appropriate filtration system based on those needs.