Earthy Smell/Taste Page

Have you ever turned on your faucet, expecting a refreshing glass of water, only to be greeted by an earthy or musty flavor? Sometimes, it might even remind you of fallen leaves or damp earth. This unexpected taste and aroma in your drinking water can be both puzzling and concerning. 

Rest assured, you’re not alone in experiencing this common water quality issue.

The musty flavor or earthy smell in water is often attributed to organic compounds known as tannins. These naturally occurring substances can infiltrate your water supply, affecting everything from your morning coffee to the transparency of your tap water. But what exactly are tannins, where do they originate, and how can you remove them from your water?

According to Water World Magazine, “Tannins are naturally occurring fermented materials that are produced by the breakdown of vegetation and are found in soils, tree barks, leaves, and other plant structures. These materials aren’t harmful to human health, but affect the color, taste, and quality of drinking water.”

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind tannins and their sources and outline effective solutions to help you restore the pure, clean water you deserve in your home or business.

Causes of Earthy Smell/Taste (Tannins) in Drinking Water

Understanding the origins of tannins in your water is crucial for addressing the issue effectively. Tannins can enter your water supply through various natural processes and environmental factors. Here are the primary causes of tannin presence in drinking water:

1. Decomposing Plant Matter: Tannins often result from water passing through soil rich in organic material or decaying vegetation.
2. Above-Ground Water Sources: Rivers, lakes, and streams are more prone to tannin contamination compared to underground water sources.
3. Shallow Wells: Wells drawn from shallow aquifers are more likely to contain tannins.
4. Seasonal Fluctuations: Tannin levels can vary with the seasons, often increasing during wet periods or spring thaws.
5. Proximity to Marshlands: Properties near swamps or wetlands may experience higher tannin levels in their water.

Effects on Water Quality and Usage

While tannins are generally not harmful to health, their presence in your water can significantly impact its quality and how you use it in your daily life. Understanding these effects can help you understand the importance of addressing tannin issues. Here’s how tannins can affect your water:

1. Flavor and Odor: Water takes on a musty or earthy taste and smell when contaminated with organic matter.
2. Water Hue: According to the Water Quality Association, “Tannins from decaying vegetation and leaves can also give water a yellow or brownish hue.”
3. Discoloration: They may cause yellowish stains on clothing, fixtures, and light-colored surfaces. Scioto County Daily News states, “Tannins don’t pose a health risk, but they can have other effects. They might leave stains on laundry and plumbing fixtures, making home maintenance more challenging.”
4. Treatment Complications: Tannins can hinder the effectiveness of other water filtration and treatment processes.
5. Reduced Appliance Efficiency: Over time, they may decrease the efficiency of water-using appliances.

Secondary Concerns:

Beyond the direct effects on water quality, tannins can lead to some secondary issues that are worth considering:

• Tannins can mask other water quality issues due to color interference.
• The organic nature of tannins can promote bacterial growth in water systems if not properly managed.

While tannins typically don’t threaten health, addressing their presence in your water can significantly enhance its appearance, taste, smell, and overall usability. If you’re worried about tannins or other water quality issues, Kohley’s Superior Water recommends testing your water. You can use an at-home kit or consult with our water treatment specialists for appropriate solutions. Call us at (800) 686-3224 or complete our online form to request your complimentary water analysis today.

Treatment Options

When it comes to removing tannins from your water, there are several effective methods available. The right choice depends on factors such as tannin concentration, overall water chemistry, and your specific needs. Here are some of the most common and effective treatment options:

1. Activated Carbon Filtration: While not always sufficient alone, activated carbon can help reduce tannins and improve taste and odor.
2. Reverse Osmosis: For point-of-use treatment, reverse osmosis systems can effectively remove tannins and other contaminants. According to Waste Water Digest, “Since tannins are high molecular weight organics RO should reject them effectively.”
3. Oxidation: In some cases, proper oxidation can help break down and remove tannins, though this method requires careful management.

 

Steps to Address Earthy Smell/Taste in Water

Tackling tannin-related water quality issues requires a systematic approach. Whether you’re dealing with this problem for the first time or looking for a more effective solution, following these steps will help ensure you address the issue comprehensively:

1. Test Your Water: Have your water professionally tested to determine the exact concentration of tannins and other potential contaminants.
2. Identify the Source: Determine whether the issue affects all water sources in your home or just specific faucets. According to Portland.gov, “If your water tastes or smells earthy or musty, remove and clean aerator screens and run faucets to see if the taste or smell clears. If the taste or smell persists in all cold water faucets, even after you run the water for a few minutes, report the issue to the Water Quality Line.”
3. Check Your Water Source: If you’re on well water, inspect your well and surrounding area for potential tannin sources.
4. Consult Professionals: Based on the test results, consult Kohley’s Superior Water to determine the best solution for you.
5. Implement Treatment: Install the recommended treatment system, ensuring it’s properly sized for your home’s water usage. According to Scioto County Daily News, “First, test your water to confirm the presence of tannins. Then, consider installing a water softener or filtration system designed to remove tannins, such as an activated carbon filter or ion exchange system.”
6. Regular Maintenance: Once a treatment system is in place, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
7. Monitor Water Quality: Conduct periodic water tests to ensure the treatment remains effective over time and adjust as necessary.

Remember, while the earthy taste and smell caused by tannins can be unpleasant, they typically don’t pose immediate health risks. However, addressing the issue is important for improving your overall water quality and enjoyment.

Kohley’s Superior Water Tannin Solutions

At Kohley’s Superior Water, we’re dedicated to transforming your water from problematic to perfect, as we have since we opened our doors in the 1960s. The earthy taste and smell in your water may be frustrating, but with our expertise and advanced treatment solutions, it’s a challenge we’re well-equipped to handle. “Promptly addressing water quality issues not only improves the taste and smell of your water but also protects your plumbing and appliances from any long-term effects,” says Kohley’s Manager, Paul Johnson, who has been with the company for over 32 years.

Don’t let tannins compromise your water quality or your peace of mind—contact Kohley’s Superior Water today. Fill out our online form or call us at (800) 686-3224 to start tackling your tannin issues. Our team is ready to assess your water and design a customized water treatment plan that meets your needs.With Kohley’s Superior Water, you’re not just getting a service; you’re investing in the comfort and well-being of your household. Let us help you rediscover the joy of clean, fresh-tasting water – because at Kohley’s, your water quality is our top priority. However, you don’t need to take our word for it. Check out our Google Customer Reviews to see what our previous customers thought about working with us.