Tastes and Odors

Hydrogen Sulfide – Rotten Egg Smell

In its pristine state, water is colorless, tasteless and odorless. So, if your water tastes or smells funny, you owe it to yourself to find out why.

Earthy or Musty Taste and Odor

These types of complaints are generally the result of compounds released due to decayed vegetation and are typically associated with different forms of algae. While not toxic, they are nontheless unpleasant and can be offensive at very low concentrations.

“Rotten Egg” Smell

Another common source of smelly water is hydrogen sulfide (sulfur). Hydrogen sulfide is a corrosive gas which has the characteristic odor of rotten eggs. If present in high enough concentrations, it can leave an unpleasant odor on hair and clothing. It can also accelerate corrosion of metal parts in appliances.

Metallic Taste

As the name implies, a metallic taste to your water indicates the presence of metals such as iron, copper, manganese or zinc. Iron and manganese are often naturally occurring and are predominately found in ground water. Copper and zinc can come from an aging water distribution system or the corrosion of copper plumbing and brass fittings.