Top Causes of Smelly Water and How to Fix Them
Have you ever turned on the tap, only to be hit with an unpleasant odor? Smelly water isn’t just off-putting—it can also signal underlying water quality issues. Whether your water smells musty, metallic, or like chlorine, identifying the cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.
Let’s dive into some common water smells and how to fix them.
5 Common Causes of Smelly Water and What to Do About Them
1. Musty or Earthy Smell
If your water smells musty, moldy, or like damp earth, you may have organic material buildup in your pipes or within your water source. This is often caused by algae, fungi, or bacteria in groundwater or plumbing systems.
How to Fix It:
- A whole-house water filtration system can effectively remove organic compounds that contribute to musty odors.
- If the smell is coming from a specific faucet, flushing your pipes with a strong disinfectant like chlorine may help.
2. Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell
That rotten egg smell usually comes from hydrogen sulfide gas, which can form naturally in well water or due to bacteria in your plumbing system. This gas can make your water unappealing and can even cause minor plumbing corrosion over time.
How to Fix It:
- A whole-house filtration system with activated carbon can remove hydrogen sulfide.
- If the smell is only in your hot water, it could be due to a reaction with your water heater’s anode rod. Replacing the rod with an aluminum or zinc alternative can help.
3. Metallic or Rusty Smell
If your water has a metallic taste or smell, it may contain excess iron, manganese, or even traces of copper or lead. This can happen due to old plumbing or high levels of naturally occurring metals in your water supply.
How to Fix It:
- A water softener can help by reducing iron and other metal buildup in your water.
- If lead is a concern, a reverse osmosis (RO) drinking water system provides additional filtration to remove harmful contaminants.
4. Strong Chlorine Smell
Municipal water suppliers add chlorine to disinfect water, but sometimes the levels can be too high. This can cause an unpleasant chemical smell and taste.
How to Fix It:
- A whole-house carbon filtration system effectively removes chlorine from all your household water.
- If you’re mainly concerned about drinking water, a reverse osmosis system can provide filtered, great-tasting water right at your tap.
5. Sewage or Decay-Like Smell
If your water smells like sewage or decay, bacteria may be present in your plumbing or drains. This can sometimes be mistaken for an issue in your water when it’s actually coming from drain buildup.
How to Fix It:
- First, check if the smell is coming from the tap or the drain. If it’s the drain, a deep clean with baking soda and vinegar might help.
- If bacteria are in your water supply, a UV purification system combined with whole-house filtration can eliminate harmful microorganisms.
Say Goodbye to Smelly Water with the Right Water Treatment System
The best solution depends on what’s causing your smelly water. At Pacific Coast Water Systems, we specialize in helping homeowners in Anaheim, Fullerton, Yorba Linda, Norwalk, Hacienda Heights, Santa Fe Springs, and surrounding areas find the best water treatment solutions for their homes. That’s why we offer a range of water treatment options that can improve your home’s water quality:
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Drinking Water Systems – Ideal for removing chlorine, heavy metals, and contaminants that affect your tap water’s taste and odor.
- Water Softeners – Reduce iron and other minerals that contribute to metallic smells and stains.
- Whole-House Filtration Systems – Remove chlorine, bacteria, and organic materials that cause musty, sulfuric, or chemical odors.
- Portable Exchange Tank Service – A great option for homeowners who want soft, clean water without the maintenance of a traditional water softener.
If you’re dealing with smelly water, don’t ignore it! A professional water quality assessment can help determine the best solution for your home. Contact us today for a FREE water test and take the first step toward cleaner, fresher water in your home!
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