Of all the systems in a home, nothing is quite as important to your family’s health and wellness as your water supply.
From brushing teeth to doing laundry to grabbing a glass of water after a workout – your tap water keeps your household running and hydrated. And while you might not think about how important clean water is every day – you know when something isn’t quite right with your water. Maybe your tap water has an unusual taste or smells a little off. Diagnosing the cause of problems like these is an important first step in solving the issue. At Watercheck, we can help.
Issues with water taste and smell often happen when high concentrations of organic materials make their way into your water system. This can happen when it rains a lot or as your pipes age. It can also be the result of factors you might not be aware of – changes from the city supply, plumbing system problems, construction runoff, an oil spill, changes in the water source, and more. The following list outlines the common problems – as well as some of our recommended diagnostic tools and solutions.
Why does my water taste metallic?
Metallic tasting water is likely caused by a nearby metal – likely iron, manganese, zinc or copper – working their way into your drinking water in higher-than-normal concentrations. Any of these materials are present in most household plumbing, and a small amount of these do not necessarily pose a risk to you or your family. However, they can cause issues with your laundry and dishes, since these minerals can build up and leave deposits that reduce the life of water heaters, dishwashers and more.
Why does my water taste bitter?
Two reasons your drinking water could have this unpleasant, bitter taste are increased levels of total dissolved solids, known as TDS, or corroded copper in your water pipes. Total dissolved solids and copper can create stomach pains if there is an abnormally high concentration level. You’ll want to get your water tested once you experience any abnormalities like a bitter taste to prevent health issues. TDS can also be bad for your skin and hair – leaving a greenish tint on hair. It can also be harmful to small pets and aquarium fish.
Why does my water have an earthy taste?
As more non-native species make their way into lakes and rivers, algae blooms have become more common. These blooms are harmful upswells of minerals from deep in a body of water and they grow more prevalent as sun and warm weather feed them. These blooms can also create an earthy smell in water. While most municipal water suppliers treat for algae, the taste can unfortunately remain behind.
Why does my water taste musty?
There could be two reasons for that musty taste and moldy water smell: iron-related bacterial growth in your water system or algae. Water tests can determine exactly which mineral is causing your system’s issue.
Why does my water taste like chlorine?
Chlorine is often used by municipal water suppliers as a final stage in their water treatment process. It is used worldwide to kill harmful bacteria in drinking water supplies. That means it is present in any city-supplied tap water; how much is in the water can affect its taste and smell. Time of day can also mean a heavier concentration of chlorine levels: early morning and early evening peaks in demand mean water gets treated more quickly. If your water consistently smells like a pool or has a bleachy taste, contact your water supplier. You can also have your water tested for elevated levels of chlorine.
Why does my water taste salty?
Chloride ions are the main culprit when it comes to salty tasting tap water. While that may sound concerning – you’ve likely heard of this common mineral that’s on your dinner table in the form of regular table salt. In addition to sodium chloride, potassium chloride or calcium chloride can contribute to a salty taste. Any of these can enter your water supply through seawater or industrial waste. If you notice a drastic change in the salty taste of your water, it could mean a problem nearby. Pay attention to precipitation in your area since this can cause added agricultural runoff and an increase in salt entering the water system. Melted snow or rain can carry road salt and also contribute to issues.
Why does my water have a fishy taste?
If you’re on a well system, your groundwater may be exposed to more earthy minerals than centrally treated water. This can lead to a fishy taste or smell. Treatment at the source is often the best solution. If you are on a city-supplied system and experience the fishy taste, it could be caused by untreated algae in the water. Check with your supplier.
Why does my water taste like gasoline?
While many minerals are common in water, fuel isn’t one of them. If your water smells or tastes like gasoline or diesel, it’s worth investigating quickly. If only one faucet in your home delivers this foul-tasting water, it may be time to call a plumber. If the problem exists throughout your home, call your water supplier or get your well water check by a professional. The problem can be the result of fuel runoff from a nearby fuel source that needs to be addressed at the source.
Why does my water taste like rotten eggs?
Water that tastes like rotten eggs is more common than you might think. The rotten egg smell and taste are caused by hydrogen sulfide, a naturally occurring mineral that’s the product of decaying organic matter. While a lot of municipal water providers don’t consider this harmful, it can make your water less appetizing.
Why does my water have a tart aftertaste?
If your water has a tart aftertaste, take a closer look. Does it appear yellow or brown? The taste and off-putting appearance can be caused by tannins. These are a byproduct of iron in the water. While this is a naturally occurring element, you’ll want to have your water checked for iron levels. For well systems, the ideal range is between 0.5 and 10 milligrams per liter.
Why Does My Water Taste Sweet?
While sweet-tasting water isn’t that common, taste buds react to water differently. Your spouse may taste something sweet, while you taste something metallic. If anyone in your household notices a strong sweetness or just a slight sweet water taste, it can be due to a high concentration of calcium or iron in your drinking water. While these minerals are common in drinking water and not necessarily harmful, it’s still a good idea to test your water’s pH levels as imbalanced pH can affect water quality.
Below is our specifically selected water testing kits for issues regarding the taste of your water:
National Testing Laboratories, Ltd.
Cleveland, Ohio 44143
Toll-Free (800) 458-3330
