How to fix smelly tap water?
Nothing makes you question your tap water faster than an unpleasant smell. Whether it’s a bleach-like odor, a “rotten egg” smell, or something musty, smelly water is a clear sign something isn’t right.
For Houston homeowners, this is a common issue. The good news is that most causes of water odor can be identified and fixed with the right water treatment solution.
The Most Common Causes of Smelly Tap Water
1. Chlorine and Chloramines
What it smells like: A swimming pool or strong bleach.
Why it happens: Houston water is disinfected with chlorine or chloramines. While this keeps bacteria under control, it can leave your water with an overpowering chemical smell (and obvious damage to your skin, especially the little ones in your home).
2. Sulfur or Hydrogen Sulfide Gas
What it smells like: Rotten eggs.
Why it happens: Common in well water and hot water heaters with bacteria present. Hydrogen sulfide gas is harmless in small amounts but extremely unpleasant.
3. Bacteria Growth in Pipes
What it smells like: Musty, earthy, or sewage-like odors.
Why it happens: Biofilm buildup in pipes or plumbing fixtures can cause water to smell even if the source water is clean.
4. Organic Material or Sediment
What it smells like: Muddy or earthy.
Why it happens: Surface water in Houston sometimes carries organic matter that isn’t completely removed during treatment.
Why Smelly Water Matters
Even if the odor isn’t harmful on its own, it’s a warning sign that:
Your water contains unwanted chemicals or gases.
Plumbing may be harboring bacteria.
Appliances like water heaters could be contributing to the problem.
And beyond safety, smelly water affects your quality of life. Drinking it, cooking with it, or bathing in it becomes unpleasant.
How to Fix Smelly Tap Water
1. Test Your Water First
The type of smell points to the cause, but testing confirms it. A free in-home water test identifies chlorine levels, sulfur, iron, and other contaminants.
2. Install the Right Treatment System
Carbon Filtration: Removes chlorine, chloramines, and improves taste and smell.
Reverse Osmosis (R.O.): Provides crystal-clear, odor-free drinking water at the tap.
Whole-Home Solutions: Address the problem at every faucet, not just in one sink.
3. Maintain Your Plumbing and Heater
When the culprit is bacterial growth inside your pipes or hot water tank, flushing and disinfection can resolve lingering smells.
Why Environmental ProTech
For over 30 years, we’ve been fixing Houston homeowners’ water problems, especially smelly tap water. Our approach is simple:
Free, professional testing to pinpoint the cause.
Custom solutions designed for Houston’s unique water.
Expert installation so you can enjoy odor-free water immediately.
What customers are saying…
PS. We have over 30 years experience in bringing clean water to the Houston Homeowners. Our reviews speak for themselves! If you want clean drinking water from your faucet, contact us at 281-495-4420 to schedule your free water test today.