Is Spring Water Better Than Ontario Tap Water?
Quick Summary: Ontario’s tap water comes from multiple sources, including Arrowhead Mountain springs, Northern California, the Colorado River, and even Canadian imports. While treated to meet safety standards, it can contain trace contaminants like arsenic, hexavalent chromium, and disinfection byproducts that impact taste and long-term health. Many residents prefer spring water for its consistency, natural minerals, and clean flavor—or choose reverse osmosis systems for reliable in-home purification. Culligan of Ontario offers both delivery and filtration solutions for fresh, safe water.
In Ontario, California, more and more residents are turning to spring water as a cleaner, better-tasting alternative to the city’s tap supply. Whether you’re trying to stay hydrated during the Inland Empire’s dry summers or just want water that tastes fresh from the source, spring water offers a natural, convenient option.
Ontario’s municipal water is sourced from a variety of locations, including the Arrowhead Mountain region, other parts of California, the Colorado River, and even Canadian imports.
This blending process ensures supply, but it also means the water you drink may vary in taste, mineral content, and purity from week to week.
So how does that compare to bottled spring water? Let’s break it down.
What Is Spring Water?
Spring water originates in underground aquifers and rises naturally to the surface under pressure. It’s typically collected at the springhead or accessed through artesian wells and retains essential minerals like calcium and magnesium.
In contrast to Ontario’s multi-source municipal supply, bottled spring water is usually drawn from protected, singular spring sources—often closer to the point of use. That means a more consistent taste, a naturally filtered product, and fewer additives or treatment byproducts.
For residents who prioritize taste and water quality, spring water offers a reliable and natural option.
What’s in Ontario Tap Water?
Ontario’s tap water is a blend of sources, including:
- Arrowhead Mountain region springs
- Northern California watersheds
- Colorado River imports
- Supplemental water from Canada
This water is treated and managed by the City of Ontario’s Municipal Utilities Company to meet state and federal drinking water standards. Still, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), trace levels of the following contaminants have been found:
While these are regulated by the EPA, some exceed the EWG’s health-based limits, especially when considering long-term exposure. This makes spring water or advanced filtration an appealing option for residents with health sensitivities—or anyone who just prefers a cleaner, crisper taste.
Why Ontario Residents Choose Spring Water
In a region with a growing population and a complex water delivery system, more Ontario households are choosing spring water for its purity and simplicity.
Here’s why:
- Consistent taste: Bottled spring water isn’t affected by seasonal or source-based variations.
- Naturally occurring minerals: Great for hydration and taste.
- No chemical additives: Spring water avoids chlorine and disinfection byproducts like TTHMs and HAA5.
- Easy delivery: Some Culligan locations in Southern California offer home and office delivery tailored to your schedule.
From older neighborhoods to new builds in Ontario Ranch, spring water provides dependable quality in a rapidly expanding city.
Spring Water Alternatives
Prefer not to rely on bottled delivery? Home filtration systems can give you the same clean, fresh water directly from your tap—without having to store or swap bottles.
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems remove sediment, chlorine, lead, and other contaminants using multiple filtration stages. These systems can transform blended tap water into a safer, better-tasting source for your family.
Culligan of Ontario also offers deionized water, which goes through reverse osmosis and ion exchange to remove nearly all dissolved solids—ideal for those with specific health needs or water preferences.
These systems are perfect for:
- Reducing unwanted taste and odors
- Improving water clarity
- Protecting household members with sensitive systems or dietary needs
