Earthy or musty

Long lengths of pipework in large buildings, or pipes that feed into infrequently used taps, water can become stagnant. This can cause a stale or pond-like smell or taste. 

An earthy or musty taste and/or smell can sometimes be caused by the harmless algae bacteria or other organic matter in the river or reservoir where your water is sourced from. 

• Standing water in pipes: Water that has been sitting in household plumbing for long periods can take on tastes or smells from the pipe materials. 

• Microbial growth: Organisms can grow on washers, inside pipes, or within taps, especially if they are not regularly cleaned or used. 

• Pipework layout: Certain materials or configurations, such as hot and cold pipes running closely together, can encourage bacterial growth, which may affect water quality. 

• Blocked waste pipes: Smells from your sink plughole may be due to blocked waste pipework and can become noticeable only when the tap is running. 

Run your tap: Doing this for a few minutes will bring fresh water into your property and flush the system. This will usually resolve the metallic taste or smell. Instead of letting the water go to waste, why not collect it to water your plants with. 

Check and clean your fittings: The kinds of bacteria that can cause a musty taste or smell may grow on valves, washers and other fittings. You may need to check they are all compliant with the Water Regulations and replace any if necessary. 

Check your hot and cold water pipes aren't touching: The heat transfer between the hot and cold pipes can also cause bacterial growth, so you or a plumber should check that they aren't touching. If they are close together, you may need to insulate or 'lag' your water pipes to stop the transfer of heat.