My water tastes and smells unusual
Water can smell or taste different for a number of reasons. First check the environment you're in. Our sense of smell can influence our taste so its important to be aware of the smalls in our environments.
Sewage
What to do if your water tastes or smells like sewage, egg or fish.
This could be coming from your drain or sink.
Fill a glass with water from the tap where you've noticed the smell or taste of sewage.
Take that glass of water into another room in your home.
Smell the water again to check if the smell clears.
If it does clear, this would suggest that the smell is coming from a sink or drain, rather than the water itself.
Other factors from the environment that could cause an unusual taste or smell could be: cooking, paint, work outside, cars.
You can use household drain cleaning products to clear or unblock the drain.
If the small/taste is coming from the water this could indicate a potential problem with the private internal waste pipes.
Examples of the potential causes could be:
Incorrectly installed domestic appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.
Infrequently used washing machines and dishwashers.
A problem with the traps on sinks, wash basins, baths and shower trays.
Incorrectly installed or faulty internal soil vent pipes.
An inspection chamber inside a conservatory or extension on a private drain.
Usually domestic products can be used to get rid of the smell, as advised by the manufacturer of your appliance. If the smell does not subside please contact a plumber they will be able to inspect your appliances to establish the root cause of the smell.
Chlorine or bleach
What to do if your water tastes or smells like swimming pool water, TCP, antisceptic or mouthwash.
Chlorine is added during the final stage of the water treatment process. Some customers may notice this more than others if they are sensitive to the taste or smell.
The tast and smell on chlorine can be stronger when:
You live nearby to one of our treatment works facilities (The closer you are, the more noticeable it may be)
The time of day, as first thing in the morning and early evening is peak time for water use. This means the water comes more quickly from the treatment works and may contain more chlorine.
The temperature of the water. For example, cold water can hold chlorine for longer than warm water.
Fill a jug with the water and put it in the fridge for a few hours (but no longer than 24 hours) so the chlorine can dissipate.
Metallic and earthy
What to do if your water has a bitter taste or smell like metal, dirt or wood.
Reactions between chlorine in the water and rubber or plastic parts in your plumbing can cause an unpleasant taste or smell.
This is commonly found near pipes connecting appliances such as:
Washing machines
Dishwashers
Other appliances connected to the water supply
Fill a jug and put it in the fridge for a few hours (but no longer than 24 hours). This should allow the chlorine to dissipate. If the taste/smell remains after this, it is more likely coming from the reaction in the pipework rather than the chlorine itself.
You can fix the unpleasant smell or taste by installing a new or replacing an existing single check valve.
Chemical or petrol
What to do if your water tastes or smells like a petrol/diesel station or lighter fluid.
Why this might happen
If you think the water tastes more chemical, it is likely to be from a new kettle or the breakdown in an older kettle. This could also be your tap washer, especially if you notice this when you are having a hot drink.
If you think the taste or smell of your water is similar to petrol/diesel then you would need to contact us