Gallatin Public Utilities closely monitors all taste and odor problems reported, in addition to performing flavor profile analyses on a regular basis.
Plastic Taste & Odor
There are several possible sources of plastic taste and odor issues. One is from plastic pipes used for building plumbing. When water sits stagnant in the plastic pipes, it may absorb some of the odor from the piping. To help alleviate the problem, flush the pipes before using the water for drinking or cooking.
Rotten Egg Odor
Sometimes we receive complaints about the water smelling like sulfur or "rotten eggs". This sulfur smell typically comes from iron in the water. It is normal to find iron in the water. As the iron forms deposits in pipes it can give off a sulfur smell. This problem will be more noticeable in seldom used lines and water heaters. Briefly running these lines periodically will help reduce the iron build up and the sulfur smell. It is also recommended that you clean and drain your water heater at least once a year, this will help reduce the amount of sediment that builds up in the bottom of your water heater.
