Can I drink the tap water?
How good is the tap water in San Juan, Puerto Rico ?
All in all, 11% of folks here drink from the tap.
How good is the tap water in all of Puerto Rico?
All in all, 14% of folks here drink from the tap.
Can you drink the tap water in San Juan then?
What residents and travelers say
Experiences with tap water in San Juan show some variability depending on the neighborhood and building infrastructure. Many locals report that the municipal water, managed by the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA), generally meets safety standards, but tastes and perceived quality can differ. In high-rise buildings or older areas, water sometimes carries a chlorine or metallic taste, leading residents to commonly use filters or bottled water for drinking and cooking. Travelers often share mixed reviews: some have no issues drinking directly from the tap, especially in newer developments, while others prefer to rely on filtered water or popular bottled brands for peace of mind. Most residents advise testing water quality by building and plumbing setup, as variability is notable. The water is typically considered safe for teeth brushing and cooking, though cautious individuals may filter or boil water as an extra step. In addition to taste and odor concerns, occasional notices from PRASA's official Twitter remind residents to stay updated on water quality alerts or maintenance work that might temporarily affect water clarity or odor.
- Tap water is officially treated and regulated but may have a noticeable chlorine flavor in some parts.
- Many residents use pitcher or faucet filters, especially in older buildings with aging pipes.
- Bottled water is a popular alternative for drinking and cooking among both locals and visitors.
- Newer residential areas tend to report better taste and fewer issues.
- Water is generally used without concern for brushing teeth or making ice, but individual caution varies.
- Check updates regularly on PRASA’s social media for advisories or maintenance notices.
For the most accurate, up-to-date information on water safety and quality in San Juan, visiting official resources like PRASA and the Puerto Rico Department of Health is strongly recommended. These sources provide guidance tailored to current conditions and specific areas, ensuring informed decisions about your local water use.
Further reading on tap water in San Juan
To verify the tap water quality and advisories in San Juan, start by visiting the official website of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA), which manages municipal water services. Additionally, the Puerto Rico Department of Health provides updates on water safety and advisories. For national-level information, check the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Official social media channels of PRASA often share timely water quality updates. Always rely on these authoritative sources for the latest and most accurate information, avoiding unverified blogs or third-party sites to ensure safety.
- https://www.acueductospr.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA)
- https://www.salud.gov.pr" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Puerto Rico Department of Health
- https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water" rel="noopener" target="_blank">United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/water-sanitation-and-health" rel="noopener" target="_blank">World Health Organization (WHO) - Water Sanitation Hygiene
- https://twitter.com/Acueductospr" rel="noopener" target="_blank">PRASA Official Twitter