How to Resolve 6 Common Tap Water Smells
Imagine turning on your tap to pour a glass of water, only to be met with an unpleasant smell. Whether it’s coming from the kitchen or bathroom faucets, identifying the source of the odour is key to finding the right solution.
Tap water odours often depend on the water source. Groundwater wells can become contaminated by the surrounding environment, while municipal water may be affected by local treatment processes.
Here, we’ll break down six common tap water smells, what causes them, and how to fix the issue.
1. Bleach or Chemical Odour
If your water smells like a swimming pool, you’re likely noticing chlorine. Municipalities often “shock” water systems with higher levels of chlorine to kill bacteria, which can temporarily cause this smell. While unpleasant, the chlorine levels in treated tap water are typically safe for consumption and will dissipate over time.
2. Rotten Eggs
The pungent smell of rotten eggs is usually caused by sulphur bacteria. These bacteria grow in pipes and drains where organic matter, like food waste, accumulates. While this smell is unpleasant, it’s generally harmless to your health. However, it can affect the taste of your water.
3. Sewage Smell
A sewer-like smell can be alarming but is often due to bacterial growth in pipes. Hair, soap, and other organic debris can build up and create this odour. For homes with groundwater wells, the smell may come from bacteria near the well system.
4. Gasoline or Petroleum Odour
If your water smells like gasoline or fuel, leave your home immediately and contact your local health department. This could indicate contamination from a nearby fuel source, runoff from landfills or factories, or agricultural chemicals. Fuel-contaminated water can pose serious health risks, including kidney and liver damage or cancer.
5. Fishy or Earthy Smell
An earthy or fishy smell often comes from decaying organic matter in the water system or drains. Algae, fungi, or bacteria in the pipes or water tank can also cause this odour. While not harmful, it can make drinking water unappealing. This smell is more common during warmer months when algae growth increases.
6. Metallic Smell
A metallic odour in your tap water is often caused by high concentrations of zinc or copper, usually when the water’s pH levels drop and become acidic. Over time, these minerals can corrode pipes and fittings, leading to both the smell and potential damage to your plumbing system.
How to Eliminate Tap Water Odours
If your tap water has a foul or faint smell, it’s important to address the issue quickly. Here are a few methods to tackle the problem:
Choose a Disinfection Method
Many homeowners use chlorine or chloramine to disinfect water sources and eliminate odours caused by bacteria. Municipal water treatment facilities often rely on these methods, and the smell typically dissipates within 72 hours of treatment.
Run Your Faucet
Sometimes, running your faucet for a few minutes can help flush out odours, especially if the smell is isolated to a single tap. If the smell persists across all faucets, the issue may lie in your home’s plumbing system.
Aeration
Aerating the water is another effective technique. This involves introducing air into the water source or storage tank to reduce odours and associated bacteria. Aeration is often combined with filtration for optimal results.
Install a Whole-Home Water Filtration System
For a long-term solution, consider installing a whole-home water filtration system. These systems target heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that cause odours, ensuring your tap water is clean, fresh, and safe.
Looking for Tap Water Odour Solutions? Contact Georgian Water & Air!
If your tap water has an unpleasant odour, the experts at Georgian Water & Air can help. We provide and install high-quality water filtration systems, including water softeners, designed to improve the quality and safety of your home’s water supply.
We proudly offer Canadian-made products, exceptional customer service, and industry-leading warranties. From Ottawa to Sudbury, Barrie, and everywhere in between, our team delivers trusted solutions for homes, cottages, and businesses.
Contact us today to learn more about our exclusive water treatment systems and how we can help you enjoy fresh, odour-free water every day!