Why does my water have an earthy or musty taste and smell?
An earthy or musty taste and odour can be caused by build-up of sediment and organic matter in our network or in the interior plumbing at your property.
Occasionally, naturally occurring organisms in our raw water storages can cause earthy or musty tastes and odours, particularly during hotter months. When this occurs, the water supply may be impacted.
If you experience an earthy or musty taste or smell, run one of your taps for a few minutes to flush any older water through your home's pipes.
It may be due to seasonal compounds such as Geosmin and Methylisoborneol (MIB) or cyanobacteria (commonly known as blue-green algae).
We regularly monitor our water storages for the presence of algae, Geosmin and MIB. If the levels rise higher than usual, we work to resolve the issue with actions that may include changing the source of the water, adjusting the treatment process or flushing our network.
Despite the smell and odour, the water is still safe to drink and complies with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. Using a jug-type filter or similar can help if you find the water too unpleasant.
Geosmin and Methylisoborneol (MIB)
Human noses and tastebuds can detect Geosmin and MIB at very low concentrations. These compounds are sometimes present in drinking water, but not usually at noticeable levels.
Changes in the temperature can increase some kinds of algae and bacteria that are naturally present in our water sources. This can cause a rise in Geosmin and/or MIB above the taste and odour threshold.
Unfortunately, although harmless, they can cause a very strong, unpleasant taste and smell. People who are sensitive may still be able to detect the odour at extremely low levels.
We appreciate people’s patience and understanding as we work to resolve the issue.
Blue green algae
Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are naturally occurring bacteria which are found in the majority of waterways and reservoirs. There are a number of different species (toxic and non-toxic) that can produce taste and odour issues.
Hot weather, high nutrient levels and slow flowing water in reservoirs can provide optimal conditions for algae to flourish and rapidly increase in numbers. This can make the water smell earthy or musty. We do our best to remove these odours in our treatment plant, however some people may still notice a faint taste or odour in their drinking water.
Taste and odour causing substances produced by algae only affect the aesthetics of the water and are harmless. The water is still safe to drink.
