Frequently Asked Questions
Water Refill and Filtration Questions, Answered
Quick answers to common water refill and filtration questions, plus RV fills and visiting the store on Mission Street in Santa Cruz.
Refill Water
What Is Mineral-Balanced Water? Refill and Container Questions
What does mineral-balanced mean for my refill?
Mineral-balanced water is drinking water that has been filtered to reduce unwanted contaminants while keeping a balance of minerals for taste and everyday hydration. At Westside Water Store it comes from a professionally maintained, multi-stage treatment process. You fill it into your own reusable bottles at the water refill station in the store.
Can I bring my own bottles and jugs?
Yes. Customers are welcome to bring their own clean bottles and jugs to fill at the store. If you need containers, the shop carries glass and BPA-free bottles, 3 and 5 gallon bottles and jugs, and water dispensers. See the reusable water bottles page for what is usually on the shelves.
How is the refill water kept consistent?
The refill system gets regular equipment maintenance, scheduled filter changes, sanitation and routine monitoring. That routine is what keeps every gallon tasting the same from one visit to the next. If you want to know more about how the water is produced, ask the staff during your visit and they will walk you through the process.
How much does refill water cost?
Pricing depends on how much water you fill and the containers you use, and the store shares current prices at the counter. Call (831) 222-3585 or stop by Monday to Saturday between 10am and 6pm to ask about the size you need, whether that is a single bottle or several 5 gallon jugs for the week.
Whole-Home Filtration
Whole-Home Filtration Questions
Does whole home filtration remove PFAS?
The Pure Way whole-home systems offered by Westside Water Store are designed to help reduce PFAS, along with chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs and disinfection byproducts, while preserving beneficial minerals. Results depend on your water and your home. Visit the whole-home water filtration page or ask in the store to talk through your situation.
Does the Pure Way system need electricity or salt?
No. The Pure Way whole-home system needs no salt, no electricity and no drain line. It also creates no wastewater, which sets it apart from many reverse osmosis systems that send part of the water they treat down the drain. Staff can show you the system on display in the store and explain how each stage works.
Will filtration help with my shower and laundry water?
Whole-home filtration treats the water as it enters the house, so the same filtered water reaches your showers, washing machine, dishwasher and every faucet, not only the kitchen sink. That is the main difference between a whole-home system and a filter on a single tap. Ask the team which approach fits the way your household uses water.
How do I know if whole-home filtration is right for me?
Start with a conversation. Bring your questions about your tap water, your home and your budget to the store, or book time through the water consultation page. Staff will explain what a whole-home system does and does not address, so you can decide with clear information and no pressure to buy.
RV and Camper Van Fills
Can I fill my RV with drinking water?
Yes. RVs, camper vans and Sprinter vans can fill their fresh water tanks with filtered, mineral-balanced drinking water at the store. Fills use a dedicated food-safe hose with regulated pressure, and no appointment is needed. Find the details on the RV water fill page, then pull in during open hours.
Is there room to pull in with a larger vehicle?
The store is in the Palm Center on Mission Street, just off Highway 1, with easy access for RVs and vans. If you are driving a larger rig and want to check the timing before you arrive, call (831) 222-3585 during open hours and the team can tell you the best way to pull in for a fill.
Hours, Parking and Getting Help
When is the store open?
Westside Water Store is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm, and closed on Sunday. For holiday hours, call (831) 222-3585 or email hello@westsidewaterstore.com before you head over. You can also find the address, phone number and a contact form on the contact page of this site.
Do you help carry heavy jugs?
Yes. Carts are available for larger containers, and staff are happy to help load full jugs into your car. A 5 gallon bottle of water weighs over 40 pounds, so ask for a hand whenever you need one. Parking is right out front of the store in the Palm Center at 1715 Mission Street.
Still Have Questions
More Water Refill and Filtration Questions? Ask the Team
If your question is not answered here, call, email or stop by. Someone at the store will be glad to help, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm.
