Why does my water taste earthy or musty?
Water that tastes or smells earthy or musty can be caused by the growth of harmless micro-organisms such as bacteria and fungi in domestic pipework. It’s particularly common in sections that aren't used much or are located close to hot water pipes. Valves and fittings containing rubber materials are also particularly prone to these growths.
Sometimes, musty or earthy smells are caused by very low amounts of naturally occurring substances released by algae growing in raw water reservoirs. These substances aren't hazardous to health at the concentrations at which they are found. Our Water Treatment Works are operated to minimise these substances and we carry out daily checks on the smell of the raw and treated water.
What to do if your water smells musty or earthy
Check your pipes
Make sure your internal hot water pipes don't touch cold water pipes and that all plumbing valves, fittings and materials are WRAS approved.
Flush your taps
Any sections of pipe or taps which aren't used often should be flushed through to allow fresh water in. This can be done by opening the tap and allowing the water to run for a few minutes.
Contact us
If checking and flushing your pipework and taps doesn't stop your water smelling musty of earthy, give us a call.