Private water supply Private water supplies are not subject to any regulation. Testing is the only way to determine if water from a private water supply is potable. The test should be done by an HHS-approved laboratory. It is generally recommended private water supplies be tested for bacterial safety at least once a year. Again, inadequate cleaning and disinfection of the container used to collect and store the water could result in bacterial contamination.
Water vending machines are systems where customers fill their own containers with treated water.
Since FDA requires water for vending machines come from an approved public water supply, the assumption is that the water meets EPA drinking water standards. The vending machine normally provides treatment above that done by the municipality. Inadequate cleaning and disinfection of the water vending machine or the container used to collect and store the water could result in bacterial contamination. Do not use bleach with soaps or scents or colors added. Two drops bleach per quart or liter container of water.