What Causes Musty Water Smell? | Common Water Problems

Water Smells Musty Fishy Or Earthy – Get Rid Of Musty Water Smell

What Causes Musty or Funny-Smelling Water?

If your tap water has a musty, fishy, or earthy odor, it’s often due to an algae bloom in the water source. This smell is caused by geosmin, a natural compound released when algae grow in lakes, reservoirs, or rivers that supply your city’s water. While water treatment plants usually filter out the algae, a faint residual odor can sometimes remain. Although algae blooms are typically not harmful to humans, water that smells like dirt or mud is unpleasant to drink.

Another common cause of foul water odors is the presence of bacteria or metals. Bacteria growing in your sink, plumbing system, or pipes can produce an earthy or musty smell, indicating the need for cleaning or treatment.

What Happens If I Drink Musty-Smelling Water?

The health risk of drinking musty-smelling water depends on the cause and concentration of the odor. In some cases, the smell is harmless and results from natural compounds that remain even after water treatment. However, if the odor is caused by harmful bacteria or contaminants, the water could pose health risks. It’s important to identify the source of the smell to determine if the water is safe to drink.

How Do You Get Rid of Musty Water Smell?

You can start by cleaning your faucet to help reduce any earthy tastes or odors. However, the most effective step is to have your water professionally tested to identify the exact cause. This ensures that any potential contaminants or pollutants – especially those that might be harmful are detected.

Once the source is known, installing a home water filtration system can greatly improve your water’s taste and remove unwanted smells and impurities.

While basic water filters may help with minor odor issues, more serious problems, such as groundwater seepage, may require guidance or precautions from local authorities to ensure your water remains safe.

Our water experts can diagnose the cause of your fishy, musty, or earthy-smelling water and recommend the right solutions.

If your water smells off, become a water detective—find the source, and then contact us for a free Clearwater Systems water test or request a quote today.

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