Drinking Water Aesthetics -Taste, Odor and Color
The change in the taste, odor, and color of Houston’s drinking water that is sourced from wells is caused by naturally occurring compounds and minerals such as hydrogen sulfide, sulfur, iron, and manganese. The City of Houston’s main water system receives approximately 15% of its water from several wells and groundwater plants across the service area. During times of high water use in the City’s system, the percentage of well water that is used can increase as the City turns on more wells to keep up with the higher usage. This can change the water aesthetic characteristics from typical conditions.
The change in the taste and smell of Houston’s drinking water that is sourced from reservoirs is caused by byproducts of a naturally occurring algae bloom in our lakes called geosmin and MIB (2-methyl isoborneol). Houston’s main drinking water system receives approximately 85% of its water from the San Jacinto River (Lake Conroe & Lake Houston) and the Trinity River (Lake Livingston). Lakes often see an increase in naturally occurring reactions such as algae blooms when there is warmth and direct sunlight. Occasionally, sudden changes in temperature and rainfall can also initiate these types of events.
FAQ - Taste, Odor and Color Concerns in Drinking Water
- What is Geosmin and MIB?
- Is the water quality affected by MIB and Geosmin?
- How long will the taste and odor changes from MIB and Geosmin last?
- Can the taste and smell changes due to MIB and Geosmin be reduced at home?
- Is water quality affected by Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfur?
- Can the taste and odor from Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfur be reduced at home?
- Is water quality affected by Iron and Manganese?
- Can the taste and odor from Iron and Manganese be reduced at home
- Why does my water taste, smell, or have a different color?
- What is the City doing about the change in taste, smell, and color of the water?