The Difference Between Potable and Non-Potable Water
Understanding the difference between potable and non-potable water is vital for safety and efficiency - sourcing non-potable water for drinking use can have serious health impacts, while potable water may be more expensive for use in cases where purified water is not necessary.
Universal Tankers is a leading provider of potable and non-potable water solutions in the UK. We service a range of businesses, from music festivals to construction sites. In the following guide, we explain everything you need to know about the two fundamental types of water so you understand which is suitable for your needs.
What is Potable Water?
Potable water is safe for human consumption. It has undergone rigorous purification and treatment processes to remove contaminants, pathogens, and other harmful substances to meet strict safety standards set by health authorities. It is safe to drink, cook with, bathe in, and use for different daily activities.
The purification process typically involves filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection. These remove physical impurities, chemical contaminants, and biological hazards, ensuring the water is of high quality and safe for human use. Access to clean, potable water is essential for maintaining public health and hygiene.
To summarise, here are some common applications of potable water:
Residential use:
- Drinking
- Cooking
- Personal Hygiene
Commercial use:
- Food and beverage preparation in restaurants and cafes
- Drinking water and sanitation in hospitals and clinics
- Safe drinking water for students, promoting health and productivity
Industrial use:
- Safe drinking water for workers, essential for their health and well-being
- The preparation and processing of food products, maintaining quality and safety standards.
Emergencies:
- For when regular supplies are disrupted
What is Non-Potable Water?
Non-potable water is not safe for human consumption. This type of water has not been treated to the stringent standards required for drinking water and may contain impurities, contaminants, or microorganisms that can pose health risks if ingested. Non-potable water can come from various sources, including natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers, as well as recycled or reclaimed water from industrial and domestic processes.
Non-potable water is commonly used for applications where high water quality is not critical. Typical uses include irrigation for agriculture and landscaping, industrial processes such as cooling and cleaning, construction activities like concrete mixing and dust control, and toilet flushing.
Proper labelling and separate piping systems are essential in environments where both potable and non-potable water are present. Clear signage indicating "Non-Potable Water" and a crossed-out drinking glass symbol helps prevent confusion and ensures safety compliance.
To summarise, here are some common applications of non-potable water:
Agriculture:
- Used to water crops, gardens, parks, and golf courses. The quality of water does not directly impact human health, making non-potable water a cost-effective solution for large-scale irrigation
Construction:
- Essential for construction projects, providing water for mixing concrete
- Helps manage dust on construction sites, improving air quality and safety
- Used to clean tools and machinery, maintaining operational efficiency
Municipal use:
- For cleaning streets and sewers, conserving potable water for drinking and cooking
- For firefighting efforts, especially in areas without access to potable water
Industrial processes:
- Used in industrial cooling systems and boilers, where the water does not come into contact with consumable products.
- Suitable for various industrial applications where water quality is less critical.
Sanitation:
- Used in residential and commercial buildings, significantly reducing the consumption of treated drinking water.
- Provides water for sanitation facilities, maintaining hygiene at events without the need for potable water.
Our Water Services
At Universal Tankers, we provide both water services so your operations run smoothly and safely, no matter your requirements. We deliver non-potable water in any volume, from small 1,000-litre bowser refills to large 18,000-litre deliveries. For potable water, we offer various volumes tailored to your specific needs.
We can also provide water bowsers, on-demand pumps, and sanitised equipment to assist with the clean and safe delivery of water supplies. We guarantee delivery within 24 hours of your request, with customisable schedules to fit your needs.
All our deliveries use clean hoses and fittings and are handled by trained operatives. We regularly clean and sanitise all equipment used for potable water to prevent any risk of contamination. With over two decades of experience, we understand the unique needs of various sectors, from construction to events.
With 20 depots across England and Scotland, we offer prompt and efficient delivery of non-potable and potable water. Our strategically located depots ensure swift response and continuous supply. By choosing Universal Tankers for your water needs, you benefit from our extensive experience, commitment to quality, and reliable service. Whether you need a temporary water supply solution or a consistent refill service, our team provides expert advice and tailored services to meet your requirements efficiently.
Get in Touch
For more information about how we can assist with your water-related needs, simply call us today on 0800 180 4474 (England) or 01236 434422 (Scotland), or fill out an online contact form and we will return your call at a time suitable for you.
