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Some people are very sensitive to taste and odour. There may be several reasons why you notice a taste or odour, including:
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What is Chlorine?Chlorine is a very effective disinfectant that has been used in drinking water for nearly 100 years. Its presence is essential in ensuring that drinking water is safe and contains no harmful bacteria. It is added in very small amounts at our treatment works and is harmless when used in this way. |
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Is the level of Chlorine we add to the water always safe?The level of chlorine in your water is well within the guidelines set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). |
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Why can I detect Chlorine in my water supply?Small amounts of chlorine are desirable to remain in the water supplied to your tap to ensure disinfection throughout the mains network. The chlorine is not harmful and prevents the growth of bacteria in the mains and pipes. |
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Are there variations in the levels of Chlorine?Chlorine is added continuously at a constant rate and if we have to increase the level to maintain the standard of protection these changes are carried out very gradually. At times of high demand, such as first thing in the morning and late afternoon/early evening, more people are drawing water from the network. This means that the water will reach you more quickly than at other times and the faster the water reaches you, the more chlorine it will contain. |
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Can I remove Chlorine from my water?An easy, safe way to remove chlorine is to place a jug of water in the fridge before drinking. Cool water always tastes better, but discard any unused water after 24 hours. You can opt to use a jug filter or install a permanent carbon filter on the cold water feed. Please remember that doing this will remove the chlorine and its protective properties, so if this water is not kept in the fridge and used within 24 hours it will deteriorate. |
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What if my water supply changes or I move house?Supplying water is complex and the type of water varies from area to area. We try to keep the supply constant, but there may be times when we need to change the supply you receive, for instance in periods of high demand or if we have to supply you from alternative sources due to operational emergencies. Similarly, if you have moved from another area, you may find that the water supply has a different taste or odour to it. |
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How can my plumbing cause a problem?The plumbing materials in your property can influence the taste and odour of the water you receive, for example:
We recommend that non-return valves are fitted on dishwashers and washing machines. They are easily fitted and prevent the taste from the hose reaching the mains tap, to which they are normally connected. Only materials approved for use with drinking water should be used. Any domestic treatment i.e., water filters and softeners, should be installed correctly. If not, they can contaminate the drinking water supply. If your property has been unoccupied, while on holiday for example, run the tap on your return to clear the water that has been standing in the pipework, before drinking. |
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How can I find out if my plumbing is the problem?We can help you to find out if there is anything wrong with your household plumbing. Alternatively, you can get advice from a professional plumber. |
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More About Water Quality: |
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