yes, tap water sucks, regardless of where you live, but as long as you leave it out for 24 hours in an open container with a high surface area itll take care of most problems. pH is the only real issue and if u can monitor and control pH, tap water was works great. Im about 2 weeks away from my 6th harvest and ive never had a problem with tap water. Maybe more experienced guys know more but for a non-commercial grow, your good.have a read HERE