Why Does My Water Smell?

Few things are as much of a jolt as smelling strange water coming from your tap. It can be alarming and leave you wondering what the cause is. Believe it or not, there are many potential reasons why your water may have an unpleasant odor, and some of these causes can also affect the taste of your water. Here are six common reasons why your water may smell.

6 Reasons Why Your Water May Smell

Chlorine

Chlorine is a common disinfectant used in many water treatment plants to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the water. While chlorine is effective at disinfecting the water, it can also leave a strong odor and taste that some people find unpleasant.

If the odor is due to chlorine, there are several options available to remove it. You can install a carbon filter or a reverse osmosis system to remove the chlorine from your water. These systems can also help to remove other contaminants from your water supply.

Sulfur 

Sulfur is a natural element that can be found in groundwater. When sulfur reacts with certain bacteria or other organic matter, it can create hydrogen sulfide gas, which has a distinctive “rotten egg” smell. If your water smells like sulfur, it’s likely that there is too much hydrogen sulfide gas in your water supply.

If your water smells like sulfur, there are several options available to reduce the odor. You can install a water softener or aeration system to reduce the amount of hydrogen sulfide gas in your water. 

Iron

Iron can also be found naturally in groundwater, and in some cases, it can cause your water to have a metallic or rust-like smell. If your water smells like iron, it’s possible that your pipes are corroded and need to be replaced.

Bacteria

Sometimes, bacteria can grow in your water supply and cause a foul odor. This is more common in well water than in city water supplies. The bacteria can create a musty or earthy smell that can be unpleasant. If your water heater isn’t working correctly, bacteria can also take hold in there.

Sewage

If your water smells like sewage, it’s possible that there is a problem with your sewage system. This could be due to a clog in your pipes or a problem with your septic system. If you suspect that your water smells like sewage, it’s important to have it tested right away to ensure that it’s safe to drink. Nobody wants to be drinking that.

Chemicals

While this might be harder to diagnose, sometimes, your water can pick up chemicals from nearby industrial or agricultural operations. This can cause your water to have a chemical smell, which can vary. If this is the case it can be exceptionally dangerous as there’s no telling what the chemicals are and their effect on people.

If you notice a strange smell coming from your water, it’s important to get it tested to determine the cause. A water test can identify the presence of bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants in your water supply. Once you know what’s causing the odor, you can take steps to fix the problem. If your water smells like sewage or chemicals, it’s important to have it tested right away. These odors can indicate the presence of dangerous contaminants in your water supply that can make you sick. A water test can help to identify the problem so that you can take steps to fix it.

There are several potential reasons why your water may have a strange smell, and it’s important to determine the cause so that you can take steps to fix the problem. If you notice an unpleasant odor coming from your water, it’s important to have it tested right away to ensure that it’s safe to drink.

Not sure how to get it tested? Is your water heater causing the issue? Whatever the trouble, call Economy Plumbing Service. Our family-owned and operated business has over 27 years of experience helping Tucson residents with all their plumbing needs.

Remember – If Water Goes Through It Or To It, We Do It!

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