What Causes My Filtered Water to Taste Like Fish?

by Jay | Posted on December 20th, 2022

Water that has been through filtration is completely free of contaminants and almost devoid of germs and related microorganisms like algae. This filtration process keeps the water in the best possible condition while giving you the best possible utility for your house.


There might be several causes for the filtered water occasionally having a fishy odor. Therefore, there are some things that you should examine if your filtered water smells fishy and you want to discover the causes.

group of Pangasius fish at Chao Phraya River

Chlorine content 

The enormous reservoirs of water are treated with chlorine and various additional metals, like barium or cadmium, to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

Usually, chlorine doesn’t smell all that much, and if it’s applied in the appropriate proportions, you won’t even notice it’s there. But if the chlorine concentration rises over a certain point, you’ll notice an odd, fishy smell.

It should be possible to eliminate the fishy odor from the water once the chlorine levels are at their ideal levels.

Clogging

The pipes or water channels you use may be clogged in some way. Water contaminants may cause this obstruction; algae or some similar substance in your pipes could be the source of the fishy odor in the filtered water you receive at home.

Even if you keep the pipes clean, they can frequently get blocked over time due to the buildup of microorganisms. However, it is important to note that substances like chlorine can aid in removing this.

Change your filter

Although you might be unaware, basic maintenance involves periodic cleaning and replacing your filter. If your filtered water has a fishy odor,  your filter might need to be replaced.

How can I make my filtered water taste better?

Filter cleaning

The water filter may become clogged with several pollutants during the filtering process. Regular filter cleaning is necessary to prevent pollutants from leaking into the water and contaminating it or giving it an odd taste.

The water purifier or filter must consequently always be cleaned. The filter can be cleaned as follows:

  • Remove the drain outlet and give it a thorough water wash.
  • Rinse the filter for three to five minutes if it hasn’t been used in three or more days.
  • You have to filter the water filter for 15 minutes if it is more than ten years old.
  • Additionally, replace them frequently because filters can lose their filter components with time and use.

Inlet water control

Not every filter is made to handle large amounts of water or water under high pressure. It could result in water leaks and poor filtration, making the water taste terrible. Keep in mind to periodically shut off the inlet source to prevent water leaks.

Filter backwashing

Long periods of inactivity cause bacteria and mold to develop in the filter. When these filters are used once more, they produce water contaminated with bacteria and could harm human health.

Backwashing the filter could be the solution to this problem. Take the filter and thoroughly clean it by backwashing it.

Conclusion 

Although the odor in your water is generally not harmful, putting up with it can be unpleasant. Thus, there are many causes of the fishy smell, and the solutions mentioned above can assist you in resolving the problem.

Jay

Jay is a health and wellness enthusiast with expertise in water quality and nutrition. As a knowledgeable advocate for holistic well-being, Jay successfully manages Type 2 Diabetes through informed lifestyle choices. Committed to sharing reliable and authoritative insights, Jay combines firsthand experience with a passion for enhancing health."