AWWA WQTC55088

A survey of 10 markets across the United States was conducted to ascertain the motivators behind the recent trend to use tap water alternatives (e.g., bottled and filtered water). In this paper, taste and odor were examined and found to be correlated to other water quality perceptions, specifically consumer satisfaction with tap water safety and health. No significant correlation between chlorinous taste and taste satisfaction was found, but may only be an artifact of the analyses. By taking an average of all 10 markets, important results were hidden and could only be revealed by analyzing each market individually. This suggests that the practice of applying national averages to any market should be done with caution. Overall, consumers tend to be satisfied with the taste and odor of their water (>50% satisfied) and give descriptors such as "none, fresh and fine" most of the time. "Chlorinous" or "earthy/musty" descriptors which can receive considerable attention by water professionals were noted less frequently (<10%). Includes 17 references, tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

01/01/2001

Number of Pages:

14

File Size:

1 file , 450 KB