Yes, you absolutely can boil sparkling water.
When you heat sparkling water, the process is straightforward and primarily affects the dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) that gives it its bubbles.
What Happens When You Boil Sparkling Water?
Boiling sparkling water causes the carbon dioxide gas, which is under pressure and dissolved in the liquid, to escape rapidly. This happens because the solubility of gases in water decreases significantly as temperature increases.
The result? The water loses its carbonation completely. There will be no bubbles left, and it will behave just like regular, still water that has been boiled.
Practical Experience from the Reference
According to one account, boiling sparkling water is a viable solution in situations where still water isn't available. The reference states: "Because we live in a country where we sometimes experience water cuts, we've often had to boil sparkling water (when local shops run out of still water)."
This real-world example demonstrates that it's a safe and practical alternative. As noted, once boiled, "It loses the carbonation completely, so there are no bubbles..."
Taste and Usage After Boiling
After boiling, the water is essentially decarbonated still water. The reference confirms that the taste is indistinguishable from that of boiled still water when used in hot drinks: "...and the tea tastes very much the same as tea made with still water."
This indicates that boiled sparkling water can be used for any purpose where boiled still water is needed, such as making tea, coffee, or for cooking.
Summary of Changes
Boiling transforms sparkling water in key ways:
| Feature | Sparkling Water (Before Boiling) | Boiled Sparkling Water (After Boiling) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbonation | Present (Bubbles) | Completely Lost |
| Composition | Water + Dissolved CO2 | Water |
| Taste | Slightly acidic/effervescent | Neutral, like still water |
| Texture | Bubbly | Flat |
Key Takeaways
- Boiling sparkling water is safe.
- The primary effect is the complete removal of its carbonation.
- The resulting water is equivalent to boiled still water.
- It can be used just like regular boiled water for various purposes, including making hot beverages.
