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
FAQ - Water Line Flushing
FAQ - Pressure Concerns
FAQ - Water Supply