Regarding Taste and Odor in Drinking Water
Knox Chapman has recently received a notable increase in inquiries and social media posts regarding an earthy smell and taste in public drinking water. We want to assure our customers that we are fully aware of the situation and are actively addressing it.
First and foremost, we want to emphasize that the quality and safety of our drinking water remain our top priority. Despite the recent reports of an earthy taste and odor, our water continues to meet all health and safety standards and is safe for consumption.
We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to resolve this issue. Below, you will find additional information that explains the cause of the earthy taste and smell and the steps we are taking to address it. Your confidence in our water service is invaluable to us, we remain committed to providing you with safe and high-quality drinking water.
Geosmin and Methyl-Isoborneol (MIB)
What is Geosmin and MIB?
Geosmin and Methyl-Isoborneol (MIB) are naturally occurring compounds that have a earthy/musty taste and odor. Geosmin and MIB are common across the United States, Canada, and elsewhere in the world. Geosmin and MIB do not pose a public health risk, but their presence can cause concern about the quality of drinking water. Utilities around the country receive high numbers of customer complaints whenever levels of geosmin or MIB increase in their water supply. Geosmin and MIB are some of the most difficult compounds to remove during water treatment.
Generally, geosmin & MIB become a taste & odor issue for customers when levels are in the range of .01 nanograms per liter (ng/L, or 10 parts per trillion), but some people who are particularly sensitive may notice it at levels above .005 ng/l. To put it in simpler terms, that would equate to one-half of one cent in a billion dollars.
It is important to note that Geosmin is NOT the result of pollution or contamination of our source waters and is not a result of a failure of treatment processes. It occurs through a natural process.
What are the Effects of Geosmin and MIB?
Geosmin and MIB produce a musty, earthy smell and taste in drinking water, however both compounds are not harmful at levels present in drinking water.
What Causes Increased Levels of Geosmin and MIB?
Some kinds of algae and bacteria present in lake and reservoir water naturally produce geosmin and MIB. An increase in this production typically happens during late summer into early fall when lake levels are low and water temperatures are warm.
Why do we smell it?
The human nose is extremely sensitive to geosmin. If you poured a teaspoon of geosmin into the equivalent of 200 Olympic-sized swimming pools, you would still be able to smell it. Heating the water increases the volatility of these compounds, which explains why the smell is more easily detected when you are in the shower or when used for hot beverages.
What Can be Done About Geosmin and MIB?
Geosmin and MIB cannot be removed from water using normal treatment processes; advanced treatment equipment is required. Knox Chapman is the process of installing said equipment to be used on an as needed basis.
Can I do anything to make my water taste better?
When Geosmin and MIB are noticeable, customers can add lemon juice and chill water in the refrigerator to improve the taste and reduce odors.