About Clear Tap

Clear Tap is an independent publication about drinking water in the United States. Our goal is simple: help people understand what is in their water, how to find out, and what they can do about it. We translate public data and regulation from agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and standards bodies like NSF into clear, practical guidance.

What we cover

We organize our work into four areas. Water Safety and Contaminants explains the substances that can appear in tap and well water and the health risks behind them. Purification and Filtration covers how home treatment works and which method removes what. Testing and Your Water shows how to find out what is in your water and act on it. Regulation and Data explains the rules that set the standards and how those standards have changed over time.

How we work

Drinking water is a health topic, so accuracy comes first. We ground every regulatory figure and health statement in primary public sources and keep them current. We do not sell water filters, we do not run sponsored reviews, and we do not recommend products by brand in exchange for payment. When we discuss treatment, we describe it by technology and by independent certification standard, so you can choose what fits your situation. You can read more about our sources on our methodology page.

Who writes Clear Tap

Articles are produced by the Clear Tap editorial team. We are an independent publication and are not affiliated with the EPA or any government agency, water utility, or manufacturer. Clear Tap provides general information and is not a substitute for guidance from your water utility, a licensed water professional, or a medical provider.

Questions or corrections are welcome. Reach us through our contact page.