Water Quality

Through a series of wells, Orange County gets its water from the Floridan Aquifer, a freshwater reservoir deep underground. Due to the high quality of this water source, the water needs minimal treatment. All water is aerated for odors and chlorinated for disinfection, though some treatment processes may differ depending on source water composition.

The water is tested for over 150 substances in the County's state-accredited lab according to Florida and federal schedules to meet drinking water standards. Over 250,000 analyses are performed each year.

Using specialized Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) equipment, trained staff monitor the water plant levels, chemicals, and treatments 24/7.

From the water treatment plant, water is distributed through an extensive system of over 2,000 pipes spread across 470 square miles of land. These pipes are regularly and proactively evaluated for upgrades, repairs, or replacements in a robust, preventative maintenance program.

Orange County Utilities installs, tests, repairs, and replaces residential backflow devices for our customers. These devices prevent cross contamination between the public water supply system and potential sources of pollution. Learn more on our Cross Connection Control program page.

Through outreach, classroom visits, and the annual water conservation calendar contest, staff educate and inspire students to be good stewards of this valuable resource. Additionally, Orange County supports the H₂O Pipeline Program that provides high school seniors an opportunity to become proficient as water and wastewater treatment plant operators and embark on a career path in this industry.