How to Fix Metallic Water Taste (And What Really Causes It)
Does your water taste like metal? Find out why and how to fix it.
We expect our drinking water to be refreshing and hydrating. But have you ever noticed a strange metallic taste that makes you want to spit it out? You might wonder what causes this unpleasant sensation, and if it's harmful to your health. I've discovered some surprising causes for water to taste this way, which extend beyond simply containing metal elements. Here’s what you need to know, plus ways to improve your drinking water quality and flavor.
1. Metal in Plumbing Pipes
Perhaps the most common cause of metallic water is rust in plumbing pipes. Your water could contain metal if your home has old or corroded copper, zinc, iron, or steel pipes. Especially if the water has sat for a while. It can taste metallic or bitter and appear reddish-brown.
This problem occurs most often in large structures with lengthy pipe runs, such as apartment buildings and blocks. This is because the water has to travel through more pipes before it reaches the tap.
How Can You Tell if Your Pipes Are the Culprit?
- Check the color of your water. If it’s clear when you first turn on the tap but turns brown or reddish after a few seconds, it may indicate rust in your pipes.
- Test your water's pH level. If it’s lower than 6.5, it may mean your water is acidic and corroding your pipes.
Rust in plumbing pipes can impart a metallic or bitter taste to water.
2. Chemical Reaction
Another possible cause of metallic-tasting water is a chemical reaction between the water and the pipes or plumbing fixtures in your home. Some public water systems add chemicals like chlorine or fluoride to make water safe to drink. However, they sometimes react with metal in pipes and release more metal into the water.
This problem might also happen if you live in an area with an outdated or damaged supply system. This can cause metals to contaminate city water as it’s transported from the treatment facility to your home.
How to Tell if Water is Affected by Chemicals
- One way is to smell it. If you notice a strong chlorine or bleach odor, perhaps your water has too much chlorine or other disinfectants.
- Look for blue-green stains on your sinks, tubs, or toilets. These stains may indicate high copper levels.
3. Low pH or Soft Water
To measure how acidic or alkaline water is, we look at its "pH level". This scale goes from 0 to 14, where 7 is neutral. Lower values correspond to acidic water, while higher ones mean it's more alkaline.
Acidic water easily dissolves metals from pipes and fixtures, resulting in a sour or metallic taste. It also has a lower pH and is more prone to corroding metal.
Water is considered “soft” when its pH value is lower than 6.5. Low-pH water has fewer minerals and tastes strange or sour, with a taste some people compare to metal.
How to Tell if Your Water Is Low-Ph or Soft?
- Feel your water. If it's slippery or slimy on your skin, it may indicate softness and lack of minerals.
- Look for soap scum on your dishes, clothes, or hair. This is usually a good sign of hard water.
4. High Metallic Contaminants Levels
Water sources sometimes contain high levels of iron, copper, lead, or manganese. This could happen if you get your water from a private well that is contaminated by the surrounding soil or rocks, for example. It is often seen in areas with high natural or industrial pollution.
These metals can cause all sorts of health problems if consumed frequently. You would likely experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or even organ damage. Lead and copper are toxic even in trace amounts. They can cause serious medical concerns like anemia, kidney failure, liver damage, brain damage, or even cancer.
Iron, copper, lead, manganese, and other heavy metals can be found in some water sources.
5. Medical Conditions
Consider this: There might not be anything wrong with your water at all. If no one else in your household notices a metallic taste, it could be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that is affecting your sense of taste.
Some conditions alter taste perception by affecting your taste buds, saliva production, or sense of smell. Others may cause a metallic sensation in the mouth by producing chemicals or substances that enter the bloodstream and reach the tongue.
| Health Concern | How It Affects Taste |
|---|---|
Pregnancy | Hormonal changes may alter taste perception |
COVID-19 | The virus may damage the olfactory nerve or the taste buds |
Gum disease | Bacteria may produce metallic compounds in the mouth |
Acid reflux | Stomach acid may rise up to the throat and mouth |
Sinus infection | Inflammation may block the nasal passages and affect smell |
Medications | Some drugs may alter the taste receptors or cause dry mouth |
Altered taste perception during pregnancy—water may taste like metal.
How to Improve Drinking Water Quality and Flavor
If you want to get rid of the nasty flavor in your glass and enjoy fresh, clean drinking water, here are some steps to take.
1. Flush Your Pipes
A simple way to remove stagnant water is to flush your pipes. If you suspect that your pipes are the source of metal-tasting water, try running the cold tap for a few minutes before drinking. This will flush out any stagnant water that accumulates metal from the pipes.
Temporarily reducing metallic tastes and odors may help, but it won't resolve the issue permanently. You might need to replace old or corroded pipes with new ones made of plastic or copper.
2. Replace Your Pipes
Fitting new copper or plastic pipes is the most effective long-term solution to prevent metal from leaching into your water. It will improve the quality and flavor dramatically.
This can be expensive and time-consuming, but it may be worth it if you have lead-based pipes in your home. Lead-soldered pipes were banned in 1986 because they release toxic lead into your water. If your home needs updating, call a professional plumber right away.
3. Install a Filter
A smart way to remove water contaminants is to install a filter. They can remove metals, chemicals, bacteria, and viruses. You could choose from different types: faucet, pitcher, under-sink, and whole-house filters are all viable options. Depending on your needs and budget, simply choose one that suits you best.
By reducing or eliminating the metallic taste and smell, a filter can greatly enhance the flavor and quality of your water. It can also protect your health by getting rid of potentially harmful or disturbing substances. You'll need to replace your filter on a regular basis, for optimum results.
These tips will help you improve drinking water quality and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Water is necessary for life, but if it tastes metallic, it can also cause annoyance and concern. This issue could have a variety of causes, from metal in the pipes to underlying medical conditions. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to enjoy pure, fresh water again.
First, identify why your water tastes like metal and check for signs of contamination. Then, by flushing your pipes, replacing them, installing a filter, or seeking medical help, you will address the likely cause. By following these steps, you can get rid of strange tastes in your water and drink it with confidence.
Sources and Further Reading
- Why does my water taste like metal? | Waterlogic
If your tap water has a metallic taste, it is likely caused by either lower pH levels, or an excess of trace minerals in your water supply. Read more ➤ - Metallic taste - NHS
Find out what can cause a metallic taste in the mouth and when to see a GP. It can be a symptom of many different things. Any recommended treatment will depend on the cause. - Ada Health GmbH 2022
A metallic taste can be a symptom of a COVID infection. It’s usually accompanied by other symptoms of COVID.
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
© 2022 Louise Fiolek
