Why does Austin Water smell bad?

Zebra mussels invading Texas city pipes are making water smell like ‘rotten trash’ Tap water in Austin, Texas, stinks. And, city officials say zebra mussels in a raw water pipeline are to blame. Even though the water smells rotten, it’s safe to drink, according to Austin Water officials.

Why does Austin Water taste so bad?

But officials with Austin Water said customers may detect a musty or fishy taste and smell. It results from a naturally occurring algae bloom in Lake Austin. The algae release compounds that affect the taste of water, Austin Water said.

Why does my tap water suddenly smell bad?

Bacteria growing in the drain Bacteria growing in the drain is the most common reason for this smell. Over time, organic matter, like food waste, will accumulate on the walls of the drain and act as a nutrient for bacteria to grow. The bacteria can produce a gas (sulfur) which smells like rotten eggs or sewage.

Why does Austin Water smell like rotten eggs?

Often if your water smells like sulphur or rotten eggs, the reason is because your water has high Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) content. H2S is a gas that is released from the earth and finds its way into groundwater. It’s especially common in well water located near shale, sandstone, coal, peat, or oil.

Is it OK to drink tap water in Austin TX?

AUSTIN, Texas — The city of Austin is under a boil water notice, which means it is not safe for you to drink tap water unless you follow certain steps. Bringing the water to a full rolling boil for two minutes will kill the disease-causing microorganisms. Make sure to let the water cool before consuming.

Is Austin tap water clean?

Austin – 2020 Water Quality Report Austin’s drinking water met all national and state water quality standards in 2020. Austin Water had no violations of listed contaminants. Austin’s drinking water is fluoridated to EPA standards. For concerns with taste, odor, color, or stagnation of drinking water call 512-972-0012.

Is Austin tap water safe to drink?

The tap water in Austin is treated using the NSDWRs standards. The company ensures that the water that gets into the tap is safe for human consumption.

Do zebra mussels smell?

AUSTIN, Texas — Zebra mussels are being blamed for Austin’s smelly water. Austin Water says the water is safe to drink, but customers in central and south Austin say it doesn’t smell like it. “It smells a little bit like sewage or maybe just like old lake water,” said Lisa Hickey who lives in Central Austin.

Why does my tap water smell fishy?

Cause: The most likely cause of a fishy smell in your drinking water comes from naturally occurring organic material that has made its way into your water source. This smell is often an indicator that you may be dealing with elevated levels of chloramines, barium, or cadmium.

How do you fix water that smells like rotten eggs?

Shock your well with chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide to get temporary relief from sulfur odors. Often keeps odors away for 1 – 2 months. 2. Chlorinator: Install a chlorine injector system (chlorinator) on your wellhead for continuous injection of chlorine when the water is running.