TMS helps you identify the source of smelly tap water

Turning on the tap and being greeted by an unexpected, unpleasant odor can be very unsettling. Clean, fresh water should be odorless and tasteless, so if you’re asking “Why Does My Tap Water Smell Funny?” – it’s natural to be concerned. If you’ve recently noticed a strange smell emanating from your tap water, you’re not alone. This is a common issue, and while it’s often harmless, it can occasionally indicate a more serious problem.

Common Water Odors and Their Causes

  • Chlorine Smell:

    • A strong, bleach-like smell may indicate that there are above average levels of chlorine in your water. Chlorine is often added to municipal water to remove harmful algae and bacteria and is regulated by the EPA. Chlorine rapidly breaks down in water and is generally harmless even if it produces an odor. If your water smells strongly of chlorine let it sit for a few minutes and the odor will dissipate. If the smell is excessively strong, contact your local water utility.

  • Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell:

    • This is often caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, and can indicate a problem with your water heater, well, or plumbing. While the gas is naturally occurring in some groundwater and not harmful at low levels, the presences of hydrogen sulfide in you water can indicate other potential problems. If the smell only occurs when using hot water then the problem is likely to be in your water heater. If you have a private well, test your water for bacteria as hydrogen sulfide can be a result of sewage or pollution contamination- though this is extremely rare. Contact a plumber or well service professional for assistance.

  • TMS replaces old copper pipesMetallic Smell:

    • The metallic smell and taste is often caused by iron, manganese or zinc that are common in groundwater. If you suspect your well water has a high concentration of these metals consult a plumber or well service about the installation of a water filter to remove excess metals and minerals. Another culprit can be iron, copper, or other metals leaching into the water from pipes, especially in older homes. It can also be caused by corroded plumbing fixtures. Run the water for a few minutes to see if the smell dissipates. If it persists, have your plumbing inspected. Water testing is recommended to identify the metal causing the issue.

  • Earthy or Musty Smell:

    • This is often caused by naturally occurring organic matter, such as algae or decaying leaves, in the water source. It can also be due to mold or mildew in your pipes or water filter. Talk to your plumber about installing or replacing a water filter. If you have a private well, ensure it is properly sealed and maintained. Contact your water utility if you suspect a problem with the water source.

  • Fishy Smell:

    • This is typically caused by decaying organic matter or certain harmless bacteria. The most common cause is organic matter built up in your sink drain, making you think the smell is coming from your water. To test, fill a glass with tap water, move away from the sink and swirl the water in the glass. If the problem is in the drain then the glass should not have an odor. In rare cases the fishy smell can be due to the presence of barium or cadmium, which can leach into water from industrial waste or agricultural runoff. If you live in an agricultural area where you suspect this may the issue, it could be a serious concern and requires immediate water testing. Contact your local health department or a certified water testing laboratory.

  • TMS can test your water or recommend in-depth testingChemical or Medicinal Smell:

    • This smell is usually a byproduct of chlorine reacting with organic materials built up in plumbing as it breaks them down. Run your water for a few minutes to see if the smell dissipates. If the smell persists it can, in rare cases, be due to contamination from industrial chemicals, pesticides, or other pollutants. If you think this may be the case stop using the water and contact your local health department or water utility.

  • Chloramine Rubber Smell:

    • Chloramine is a common disinfectant in municipal water formed by combining chlorine and ammonia and, like chlorine, is regulated by the EPA. While similar to chlorine, its smell is sometimes described as rubbery or plastic. Let the water sit for a minute or use a filter that is designed to remove chloramine to reduce the odor. If the odor is extreme and persistent contact a plumber or your municipal water supplier to have your water tested.

A funny smell in your tap water can be alarming, but in most cases is harmless and can be mitigated with the installation of a water filtration system or by updating old plumbing. But there are cases where funny smelling water indicates more serious issues and understanding the potential causes can help you take the appropriate steps. Contacting a professional is always the best way to ensure the issue is handled properly. Contact TMS at 860-314-1518 if you suspect your plumbing is impacting your water quality.