Aesthetic water quality problems, like off-tastes, odors and discoloration, vary by tap and are influenced by personal preferences. For example, a slight chlorine taste in drinking water might be preferred by some, while others wouldn’t consider drinking it.
The most common aesthetic problems include:
CLOUDINESS (TURBIDITY)
This results from suspended particles of dirt in water that makes it appear cloudy. These particles range from larger visible pieces to minute invisible particles that can make water appear hazy. Particles can build up and eventually clog working parts of water-using appliances such as ice makers or coffee machines, causing them to break down.
ROTTEN EGG SMELL
The rotten egg smell is caused by hydrogen sulfide in the water, It is produced by bacteria in deep wells and in low-use, stagnant water mains. Hydrogen sulfide is highly corrosive.
DISCOLORATION AND STAINING
Brown water is caused both by tea-like extracts of decaying leaves and other organics, and by metals such as iron, manganese and copper. Unpleasant tasting and looking, this brown discolored water will also stain sinks, toilets and showers and your laundry (especially those whites). The degree to which this occurs will depend on the amount in the water.
RUST AND METALLIC TASTES
Excessive iron and other metals in drinking water change the taste and appearance of water. Water can taste metallic even though it appears normal at first, turning “rusty” after a few minutes of contact with air.
HARDNESS
Water becomes "hard" when it picks up calcium, magnesium, and other minerals, such as iron, as it travels through certain types of rock and soil. These minerals can build up in appliances and pipes, restricting water flow. Hard water also leaves a sticky film on shower tiles and inhibits the lathering ability of soaps and detergents.
CHLORINE TASTES
Chlorine, commonly used by municipalities to disinfect the water supply, often causes poor tasting and smelling water. Chlorine taste and odor is by far the most common aesthetic complaint.
MUSTY, EARTHY & FISHY TASTES AND ODORS
These tastes and odors are caused by algae, molds, and bacteria that naturally live in most water sources, like lakes and rivers.