3.2. Can I use tapwater for ...?
Description
This article is from the Darkroom
Work FAQ, by Cees de Groot
3.2. Can I use tapwater for ...?
Generally speaking: yes you can. The short answer comes from David Manzi <mailto:dman3@mediaone.net>, I quote:
Could you use it from a tap? Yes you could, you little sap! Could you use it for a mix? Sure you could, without a fix! Can I use it for a wash? Absolutely, let is slosh! But what about photo-flo? Ooo I'm sorry, that's a no.
The general consensus is that normal tapwater doesn't contain any chemicals in high enough concentrations to influence photographic processes. This is assuming we are talking about water from a water company - well water may very well be unsuitable for darkroom work. The only exception is the final rinse with wetting agent (Photo Flo), where hard water may still leave drying marks; here it makes sense to use distilled water, water from an air dehumidifier, or bottled water (if it is soft enough).
This is only a general consensus, people have been complaining about their tap water's fitness for darkroom work. If you feel uncertain, you might want to consult others in the area (minilabs), your water company, etcetera.
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