Taste

Southern Nevada's water supply meets or exceeds all state and federal drinking water standards. Adding chlorine during the water-treatment process helps protect the water supply. However, chlorine's taste may not appeal to you.

Use these tips to help improve the flavor of your tap water.

Put a pitcher of tap water in the refrigerator. This allows the chlorine to dissipate. After just a few hours, you'll notice an improvement in flavor.

Add a lemon or orange slice. You'll add zest and overcome the chlorine taste simply by overpowering it.

Filter your water. There are hundreds of filter options at varying costs, but an inexpensive activated carbon filter, like those found in carafe systems, can improve taste and odor perceptions associated with chlorine. These filters do not remove hardness, minerals, sodium or fluoride.

The Southern Nevada Water Authority offers an information packet to help you make an informed decision. For a water-quality information packet, call 258-3930.