Can You Drink the Tap Water in Lanzarote? Essential Facts for Travelers

When planning a trip to Lanzarote, one common concern is whether the tap water is safe to drink.

Lanzarote, a beautiful island in the Canary Islands, relies on desalinated seawater for its supply.

While the water is generally safe to drink, the taste may not be pleasant due to its desalination process.

It’s important to understand that the quality of tap water in Lanzarote could vary depending on factors like the storage and filtration systems in place.

As a result, many locals and tourists opt for bottled water or filtered options to ensure a better taste and quality.

Key Takeaways

• Tap water in Lanzarote is generally safe to drink but may have an unpleasant taste due to desalination.
• Water quality may vary, depending on factors such as storage and filtration systems.
• Many people prefer bottled or filtered water to ensure better taste and quality in Lanzarote.

Is Tap Water Safe in Lanzarote?

Yes, tap water in Lanzarote is generally safe to drink. However, the water comes from desalinated ocean water and may not taste great.

It is stored in Aljibes, which might not be as clean as you’d hope. While using it for cooking and brushing teeth is common, some people still prefer to buy bottled water.

Regular testing ensures the water in Lanzarote is free from harmful bacteria and contaminants. Despite this, it is advisable to avoid swallowing tap water while brushing your teeth.

The water might have a chlorine taste, as the island uses it for purification. You could opt for a water filter with a cartridge that removes chlorine for improved taste.

Understanding Tap Water in Lanzarote

Drinking tap water in Lanzarote might not be as straightforward due to its source.

The island does not have any natural water, and thus, it relies on desalinated ocean water.

This desalinated water can have a slightly salty taste, making it less appealing for drinking. However, you can improve its quality by using a filter, such as the Agua Clara filters to obtain clean and safe drinking water.

In Lanzarote, water is supplied through the mains, but some properties also have storage tanks. These tanks, called aljibes, are used to store tap water which can sometimes come from nearby aquifers.

Regardless of the source, it’s essential to ensure the water you consume is safe. When in doubt, opt for bottled water or use a reliable filter to provide you and your family with safe drinking water during your stay in Lanzarote.

Desalination Process in Lanzarote

Lanzarote relies on desalination plants to provide fresh and safe water. These plants convert desalinated sea water into potable water for local consumption.

The primary method employed in these plants is reverse osmosis. This process separates the salts and impurities from sea water, making it suitable for drinking and daily use.

Quality is of the utmost importance. Each plant continuously monitors and tests the water to ensure its safety. As a result, Lanzarote’s tap water is safe to drink.

However, it’s important to note that the taste may be affected by the desalination process. To remedy this, many residents and visitors choose to purchase bottled water from local supermarkets.

This provides a convenient and affordable alternative for those who find the taste of tap water undesirable.

While visiting Lanzarote, you can confidently drink tap water knowing that it has been treated through the desalination process. Stay hydrated and enjoy your time on this beautiful island.

Quality of Tap Water

The tap water in Lanzarote is generally safe to drink, but it might have a different taste than what you’re used to.

This is because the island’s water comes from desalinated sea water.

You may notice a slightly salty taste when drinking the water. This is due to the desalination process, which can also result in higher levels of chloride in the water.

In terms of heavy metals, the tap water in Lanzarote is monitored to ensure it meets safety standards. However, it is always advisable to use a filter if you are concerned about water quality.

Using a water filter can help improve the taste and reduce any potential contaminants. Just remember to maintain the filter properly to ensure its effectiveness in providing clean drinking water for you and your family.

Effect of Tap Water on Drinks

When preparing hot drinks like tea and coffee in Lanzarote, using tap water is generally safe. The island’s water supply meets required standards, making it suitable for consumption.

However, the taste of the tap water may impact the flavor of your beverages. You might find that using bottled or filtered water results in a more satisfying taste.

This is particularly important for those who are particular about the taste of their tea or coffee.

Keep in mind that staying hydrated in Lanzarote is crucial. When enjoying hot drinks, don’t forget to also consume plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Drinking at least two liters of water a day can help ensure you maintain proper hydration levels.

Alternatives to Tap Water

Although the tap water in Lanzarote is safe to drink, many people find its taste unpleasant due to the desalination process. If you prefer tastier options, consider some alternatives.

Bottled water is a popular choice. You can find a variety of brands at local supermarkets and convenience stores.

Water filters are another solution. These devices remove impurities from tap water, improving its taste and quality. Some filters can be attached to your faucet or placed in a water pitcher.

Investing in a water filtration system is beneficial if you’re staying in Lanzarote for an extended period. These systems provide clean and tasty water through a more comprehensive filtration process.

Remember to choose the most suitable option for your needs and preferences, ensuring access to refreshing and clean water during your time in Lanzarote.

Health Precautions to Take

When visiting Lanzarote, you should be cautious about using tap water.

Although it is technically up to EU standards, the water is desalinated sea water and doesn’t taste very good due to the addition of chlorine.

To ensure your health and well-being, it is generally advised to drink bottled water. This is because although tap water is safe to drink, it may be stored in Aljibes or water storage devices, which may not be as clean as you’d hope.

For activities like brushing your teeth, tap water in Lanzarote should suffice. Just be sure to rinse your toothbrush well to remove any residual taste.

When it comes to cooking, you might want to use bottled water. This will ensure both the taste and quality of your meals remain uncompromised.

Environmental Impacts of Water Choices

When you visit Lanzarote, water consumption can have a significant effect on the environment. Choosing between tap water and bottled water can make a noticeable difference.

The tap water in Lanzarote is safe to drink, but may not have the best taste. This is because it is desalinated sea water.

On the other hand, bottled water has a higher environmental impact. In fact, the impact of bottled water can be up to 3,500 times higher than tap water.

Plastic pollution is a major environmental concern. When you choose bottled water over tap water, the increase in plastic waste can be detrimental to the ecosystem.

To reduce your environmental footprint, consider alternatives like filtered tap water. This option can still provide a better taste than regular tap water, without the plastic waste.

Remember, your water choices matter. By being conscious of your consumption and its effects on the environment, you can make a positive impact on Lanzarote and the world.

Impact of Local Legislation

In the Canary Islands, including Lanzarote, the legislation ensures the safety of tap water for drinking purposes. The Royal Decree 140/2003 mandates public bodies to provide clean and safe drinking water.

As a popular destination in Spain, Lanzarote follows water treatment procedures, such as reverse osmosis, to maintain safe water standards.

This method helps remove the majority of salts from desalinated water through semi-permeable membranes.

The Canary Islands government enforces strict sanitary surveillance of the tap water, including on nearby islands such as Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura. Regular tests and analysis ensure the water is free from harmful bacteria and contaminants.

While you can drink tap water in Lanzarote, be aware that its taste may not be enjoyable due to the desalination process.

Locals often buy large containers of water from supermarkets, but it’s safe to use the available tap water for cooking and hygiene purposes.

Tourist Advice Regarding Water in Lanzarote

When you visit Lanzarote, it’s essential to stay well-hydrated. Tap water in Lanzarote is safe to drink, but the taste may not be enjoyable as it is desalinated sea water.

Many tourists, therefore, prefer bottled water. Most hotels and restaurants on the island offer it as a convenient option for guests.

While exploring Lanzarote, you may notice that the Canaries’ sun has a higher UV factor compared to northern Europe. To avoid dehydration, you should drink at least two liters of water daily.

You can find large containers of water at most supermarkets in Lanzarote.

If you’re staying at a hotel or dining at a restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for bottled water to ensure a pleasant experience on your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lanzarote tap water safe for consumption?

Yes, Lanzarote tap water is technically safe to drink as it’s up to EU standards. However, it doesn’t taste great because it’s desalinated sea water and has been treated with chlorine.

Can you boil tap water in Lanzarote for drinking?

Boiling Lanzarote tap water should eliminate any potential contaminants. Nevertheless, boiling won’t improve its taste, which is mainly due to the desalination process.

Is it safe to brush your teeth with Lanzarote tap water?

It is generally safe to brush your teeth with Lanzarote tap water because it meets the EU water standards. However, you can use bottled water if you prefer.

How does Lanzarote’s tap water compare to other Canary Islands?

Lanzarote’s tap water generally faces similar quality and taste issues as the tap water in other Canary Islands. The reason being, these islands also rely on desalinated sea water as their primary source.

Where does Lanzarote’s drinking water come from?

Lanzarote’s drinking water comes from desalinated ocean water, as the island doesn’t have any natural water sources. It is then stored in Aljibes or water storage devices.

Is bottled water recommended in Lanzarote?

Bottled water is recommended in Lanzarote because it has a better taste compared to tap water. Most locals and tourists prefer to buy bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes.