Does your drinking water smell bad? Why Manatee County says that’s normal
Manatee County residents may notice an odd smell to their water, but county staff say it’s a normal, seasonal occurrence.
Natural odors happen every year, but some years — like this one — can be more intense than others, according to a video shared by Manatee County Government. However, the county assured residents the water remains safe to drink.
“As we move into spring, naturally occurring seasonal algal blooms may produce taste and odor compounds that can affect the taste and smell of your drinking water,” James Javaruski, a laboratory analyst for the county, said in the video. “As temperatures rise, this happens every year, though some years it’s more obvious than others.”
The algal blooms and bacteria appear naturally in lakes, including Lake Manatee, according to a fact sheet on the county’s website. Lake Manatee accounts for about two-thirds of the county’s drinking water.
These blooms can produce an earthy or musty odor and taste in drinking water. The county’s website states the episodes can happen two or three times per year, and last up to four weeks.
Javaruski said the county’s team can adjust the treatment process by adding powdered activated carbon, a commonly-used method to remove earthy and musty smells in drinking water caused by algae and bacteria.
If residents are still concerned about the smell and odor, the county recommends using pitcher filters with built-in carbon filters to reduce the taste, as well as a shower head with a carbon filter. Chilling the water before drinking can also help.
Residents can also reach out to Manatee County’s 3-1-1 hotline with additional questions.
