If you notice a strange odor in your tap water, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Different smells in your water can be caused by a variety of factors, including the presence of sulfur, bacteria buildup, mold or mildew, or chlorine. It is important to identify the source of the odor to ensure that your water is safe and healthy to drink. At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we have been helping Maryland homeowners address their water problems for years. Today, we wanted to explore the possible causes of various water smells and how you can address them.
My Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs
If your water smells like rotten eggs, it is likely due to the presence of sulfur in your water supply. Sulfur is a naturally occurring element found in the earth’s crust and is often present in groundwater. When sulfur is present in your water, it can produce a gas called hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which has a distinct rotten egg odor. Sulfur bacteria can promote the growth of harmful materials like iron bacteria that can clog plumbing and irrigation systems. Though sulfur itself is not harmful alone, elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide gas can cause health issues such as nausea, headaches, delirium, and convulsions.
My Water Smells Musty
If your water smells musty, you may have a mold or mildew problem in your plumbing system. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments and can produce a musty odor that can transfer to your water. Another possible cause of musty-smelling water is the presence of algae or other microorganisms in your water supply. This can be common in well water or untreated water sources.
My Water Smells Like Sewage
The sewage-like odor is usually caused by a buildup of bacteria found in your pipes. It could be caused by various factors, such as bacteria from food and soap in your drain, sewer line problems, septic system issues, or sewage contamination of groundwater.
My Water Smells Like A Swimming Pool
A swimming pool-like odor in your water is likely due to the presence of chlorine, which is commonly used as a disinfectant in municipal water supplies. Chlorine kills viruses, bacteria, parasites, and more and is a disinfectant that has been used in cities for more than a century. While chlorine is considered safe for human consumption in small amounts, it can be unappetizing to drink or cook with.
Our Team of Plumbing Experts is Here to Help with Water Odor Issues
Our team of professional Maryland plumbers is here to help with any water problems you may be facing. Our experienced professionals can identify the source of the odor and provide effective solutions to ensure that your water is safe, clean, and free of unpleasant odors. Feel free to give us a call at 866-507-1619 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you and working with you to ensure your home’s water is clean, safe, and odor-free.