Union County Water completes ongoing testing on our water to ensure it meets or exceeds all federal and state standards for water quality. However, you may wonder why you may notice taste and odor changes at some times of the year, particularly in spring or fall. This is caused by the seasonal presence of nontoxic algae blooms in the raw water storage reservoir at the Catawba River Water Treatment Plant, which provides most of the water in our system. The water is treated after being in the raw water storage reservoir, but may retain the taste and odor change. Our partners at the Catawba River Water Treatment Plant have implemented water treatment modifications to help mitigate seasonal taste and odor concerns. You can also make minor adjustments at home, such as chilling your water or using a filtered pitcher or faucet filter. These adjustments are recommended for taste or odor concerns but are not necessary, as your water is safe to drink. 

Please be assured: the water is safe to drink. If the safety of your water is ever a concern, we will contact you directly, such as if we need to alert you to a Boil Water Advisory issued for your area. You can be confident that water quality tests performed throughout the water distribution system have confirmed that Union County Water meets or exceeds all state and federal standards and remains safe to drink. The earthy smell and taste are not a health risk, but one of aesthetic quality and common in water systems across the Southeast.

Did you know?

Algae naturally grows in water sources during warm weather. As it grows, it releases small compounds that cause a musty or earthy taste and odor. This taste and odor can remain after the water is treated to drinking water standards. Some individuals’ senses of taste and smell are sensitive to these harmless compounds, even at low concentrations. Some people may not notice any taste and odor until the levels are much higher. Others may never notice it.

Frequently Asked Questions