You may have noticed an earth or musty taste and smell of your tap water recently. The changes are due to an increase in algae growth due to current hot weather conditions, which typically occurs this time of year. The algae contain a non-toxic organic compound (2-Methylisoborneol)) that changes the water’s taste and odor, even in small amounts. Despite the presence of this compound, the water remains safe to drink and for all other uses.
Heating your water increases the release of the organic compounds, which explains why the smell is more easily detected when you shower, cook, or make a hot beverage.
Good news - the Trinity River Authority, the City’s water supplier, has already taken steps to reduce the organic compound’s levels in their water treatment process. For additional information, please visit www.trinityra.org/TCWSPTasteAndOdor or call 817-267-4226.