10 Florida Water Myths—You've probably heard.
- Joseph Szilagyi II
- May 5
- 3 min read
Florida’s water may sparkle in the sun, but what’s coming out of your tap might not be as perfect as it seems. Let’s set the record straight on the most common misconceptions homeowners still believe—and what you really need to know.
1. “City water is safe... right?”
The Misconception: If it’s regulated and treated by the city, there’s nothing to worry about.
The Facts: City treatment handles a lot—but not everything. Once water leaves the treatment plant, it travels through miles of pipes before reaching your home. Along the way, it can pick up rust, sediment, and even trace contaminants. City water is a good start, but it’s not the final stop for clean water.
2. “Hard water is just a minor annoyance.”
The Misconception: It’s just a few soap spots—no big deal.
The Facts: Hard water wears down appliances, leaves buildup in pipes, dries your skin and hair, and shortens the life of everything from water heaters to your favorite t-shirts. Over time, it can cost you hundreds (or more) in repairs and replacements.
3. “If it looks and smells good, it’s fine.”
The Misconception: Clean-looking water must be safe to drink.
The Facts: Some of the worst contaminants—like lead, arsenic, or industrial runoff—have no taste, color, or smell. Your senses can’t catch what’s really lurking in your glass. Only testing and proper filtration can.
4. “Um, have you heard of pitcher filters?”
The Misconception: That little pitcher or tap filter is doing all the heavy lifting.
The Facts: Pitcher filters are great for taste, but they’re limited. Most only reduce chlorine and a few sediments—they don’t touch heavy metals, bacteria, micro-plastics, or chemical residues. For full coverage, you’ll need something with more muscle.
5. “Just slap in a chlorination system!”
The Misconception: Chlorine is the ultimate fix—just blast it and forget it.
The Facts: Chlorination has its place, especially for homes with bacteria or severe well water issues. But using it on everything is like driving a semi to get a gallon of milk—overkill. It adds maintenance, chemicals, and adds a lot of moving parts. A simpler, more targeted system might give you better results with less hassle.
6. “Water treatment is too expensive.”
The Misconception: Clean water = big bucks.
The Facts: The upfront cost of a good system might make you pause—but the long-term savings are real. You’ll spend less on plumbing repairs, detergents, bottled water, and energy bills. Also, shopping around is always a good idea! Just remember, you pay for expertise too! Payment plans are also available!
7. “Reverse osmosis wastes too much water.”
The Misconception: It just sends gallons down the drain.
The Facts: Older systems did—new ones? Not so much. Today’s RO tech is far more efficient and can even reuse some wastewater. And for what you get—crystal-clear drinking water, stripped of nearly every contaminant—it’s worth the peace of mind.
8. “Salt systems add tons of salt to your water.”
The Misconception: Softened water is basically a salt shake.
The Facts: The amount of sodium added is minimal—far less than you’d find in a slice of bread. Still concerned? Myth Busted.
9. “I got it from the hardware store, so I’m good.”
The Misconception: If you picked it up in aisle 14, it must be enough.
The Facts: Big box store filters are one-size-fits-all—and Florida’s water is anything but. You need a custom solutions, not cookie-cutter cartridges. A professional system is tailored to what your home really needs.
10. “A little city water chlorine never hurt anyone...”
The Misconception: That faint bleach smell? Totally normal.
The Facts: Chlorine is necessary—but too much of it can irritate skin, dry out hair, and it’s even worse to breathe! Plus, it creates byproducts you don’t want hanging around. Filtering it out (with a carbon filter) once it’s done its job is the healthy move.
Final Splash:
Florida water has character—sometimes a little too much. Whether you’re dealing with minerals, chemicals, or just want your water to taste and feel better, treating it at home puts you in control. Start with a test, and see what a real solution can do.
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