In Uppsala you can drink the tap water. We test the quality frequently. Please note that the hot water is the responsibility of the landlord and is not considered safe to drink.

From ground to tap

Uppsala is situated on top of its very own drinking water resource. Underneath the city is a thick layer of clay protecting the sand-filled ridge which holds a large aquafer of ground water.

Throughout the city the ground water is pumped to Uppsala's drinking water treatment plants. There, the water gets softened by removing part of the calcium carbonate. The softening lessens the amount of schampoo, soap, dish soap and laundry detergent that housholds use. We also add a small amount of sodium hypchlorite to disinfect the water for it to be of great quality when it gets to your home.

Note that the amount of calcium carbonate in the water might leave white stains where water have been used, but it's easily removed with citric acid or vinegar. Strong chemicals are not necessary.

Water quality

The water quality is tested frequently during different places and stages of the supply system. The drinking water is the most controlled food or drink in Sweden.

Cost of water

If your household is connected to a water line or sewage line where someone else is responsible, often the municipality, you pay for every litre of water. In Uppsala the cost is around 4 öre per litre (0,04SEK), which is quite cheap.

If you have your own well

If your household uses your own water source you don't pay anything to the municipality for using it. The owner is responsible for the quality and care of the water.

You're not legally bound to test the water but it's recommended to do so regularly, especially if the water suddenly turn a different colour, taste or smell.

You can buy our service of testing your water at our Water laboratory.