female drinking glass of water

What to do if your water smells and tastes unusual?

Does your water have a strong metallic taste? If your tap water has a metallic taste, it’s crucial to find out why your water tastes metallic so that you can fix the problem and get back to drinking nice-tasting water. A problem could be long-term exposure to metal pipes because it can cause water to gather traces of metals, resulting in metallic or bitter tastes and smells, especially in hot water. Read below to find out more about why your water smells and tastes like metal and also what you can do to fix it.

What Makes Water Taste Metallic?

Municipalities must add specific chemicals to tap water in order for it to be safe for drinking. Among these chemicals are:
  • Aluminum sulfate
  • Calcium hydroxide
  • Fluorosilicic acid
  • Liquified chlorine
  • Sodium silicofluoride
  • Tap water also contains nitrates, hormones, pesticides, and various metal salts. There are always traces of chemicals and microorganisms in the water you drink at home, so it is never really pure. Because of the chemical reaction with the metal used in plumbing systems, water with a high concentration of chlorine could have a metallic taste. This might cause the taste of tap water to become bitter.
    Low pH levels can also cause your water to have a metallic taste. Water with a low pH level can have an acidic or sour taste that reminds some people of metal. Acidity levels can be influenced by a wide range of circumstances. You can get a pH level test kit from the supermarket to measure your water’s pH level at home.

    Has the Taste of Your Water Always Been Metallic?

    You probably know how your tap water tastes, and if you travel to another state, you should notice that their tap water has a quite distinct taste. A lot of cities use different ways to purify water. Consider whether the metallic taste has always been present or if it is increasing while analyzing the water quality. Was it a one-time situation, or does it happen regularly? Check with the municipality about any problems in your area or if they have adjusted their treatment methods.

    Are You Using a Water Softener?

    If you use a water softener, you are most likely treating your water to reduce its hardness. Water softeners use salt to treat water, which can produce a metallic taste.

    What Should I Do If My Water Has Metallic Taste?

    When drinking water has a metallic taste, one of the first things people wonder is whether they should be worried about their health. The source of the metal taste determines whether or not it is dangerous. For example, iron and zinc are generally safe to consume. But, if your water contains lead rather than iron, the lead content can be dangerous to you and your family. Lead-contaminated drinking water could cause anemia or excessive copper consumption can result in diarrhea, liver damage, and kidney damage.

    You should have your water analyzed if it tastes metallic because you don’t know what minerals are causing the problem. Visit the EPA’s website and type in your state’s name to identify local water testing labs. Certain water taps in your home can produce water with a metallic flavor. If that’s the case, take note of which taps it is coming from and contact a plumbing or specialist.

    The typical source of lead in drinking water is plumbing connected with lead solder, which was banned in 1986 due to its detrimental consequences. But, many U.S. water pipelines were installed prior to 1975. If you live in an older home, or if you are a new resident, you should have your pipes inspected.

    How Can Metallic Taste be Eliminated From Tap Water?

    The most efficient method to eliminate the metallic taste of your tap water is to buy a whole-house filtration system. This type of system is placed at the point where water enters your home, and it improves the taste of your water at every tap and protects your family from potential health risks. Contact a reputable water treatment company and have your water tested, and they will help you choose the ideal system for your home based on your specific needs.
    faucet tap water

    Final Words

    It’s not unusual for tap water to taste a little metallic. Most drinking water sources often contain small levels of zinc, iron, manganese, and copper. Contact a reputable water treatment company to determine if your metallic-tasting water is an indication of a larger problem. Your goal is not simply to determine what the issue is, but also to find the underlying problem. They will analyze your water and provide you with effective solutions.
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