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Metallic Taste in Your Water? Here's What You Need to Know (Tampa Bay, FL)

Writer: Eyal Gamili HoltzekerEyal Gamili Holtzeker

Metallic Taste in Your Water?
Metallic Taste in Your Water?

Overview

Having a metallic or chemical taste in your home's water is concerning. This unusual taste is often a sign of elevated levels of certain contaminants like iron, manganese, copper, lead, and zinc. If left untreated, these metals can negatively impact your health, plumbing system, and appliances. In this article, we’ll cover common causes of metallic tasting water in Tampa Bay, associated health risks, and the best water treatment solutions.

What Causes Metallic Tasting Water?

Several factors can cause a metallic taste in your tap water:

Iron and Manganese

Iron and manganese are two of the most common metals found in Florida groundwater. High levels give water a bitter, metallic flavor. These metals also leave stubborn stains on sinks, tubs, and laundry. While iron and manganese are not highly toxic, they can irritate your digestive system if consumed over long periods.

Copper

Corroded copper pipes and fittings can leach copper into your water, resulting in a bitter metallic taste. Copper consumed at elevated levels can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Those with liver damage or Wilson’s disease are at higher risk of copper toxicity.

Lead

Lead rarely occurs naturally in water but can enter from corroded lead pipes, solder, or brass fixtures. Lead is highly toxic, especially for children and pregnant women, and should be avoided even at low levels.

Zinc

Galvanized steel pipes can corrode over time, releasing zinc into water. Zinc leaves an undesirable astringent taste. At very high doses, zinc can cause nausea, vomiting, and other acute symptoms.

Hard Water

Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium minerals. The reaction of soap with these minerals can impart a chemical, salty taste. Hard water on its own is not harmful but can lead to scale buildup in plumbing and reduce cleaning effectiveness [5].

Health Concerns

The main health risks from metallic tasting water involve lead and copper exposure. Lead is extremely dangerous even at low doses and can impair childhood development and damage organs. Adults exposed to lead may experience hypertension, declined kidney function, and reproductive issues.

Copper is an essential mineral but can cause gastrointestinal distress in high amounts. Severe copper poisoning can damage the liver and kidneys.

Iron and manganese primarily affect taste and stain fixtures at moderate levels. However, well water with very elevated iron/manganese can potentially promote bacterial growth in pipes [1].

While zinc and hard water alter taste, they do not pose significant health risks unless extremely over the EPA limit for extended periods. Still, it is wise to treat any persistent metallic odor or taste in your water.

Testing Your Water

Since metals can be tasteless and odorless at lower concentrations, do not rely on taste/smell alone to identify contaminated water. We recommend testing your water 1-2 times per year for a panel of common contaminants.

This will help pinpoint the specific source(s) of any metallic taste so proper treatment can be installed. Contact our team to schedule a free water test consultation at your home or business in the Tampa area.

Water Treatment Solutions

The most effective solutions for metallic tasting water depend on the specific contaminant(s) present. Here are some common treatment options we recommend:

  • For iron and manganese removal, a whole house water filter using filtration media like An iron removal system with backwashing also works well.

  • To remove lead and copper, replace any lead service lines or pipes in your home. Also consider a reverse osmosis system for drinking water.

  • For zinc and hard water, a water softener is the most effective option to reduce scale and metal corrosion.

  • If bacteria growth is a concern with elevated iron/manganese, add a UV disinfection system.

  • For well water with multiple metals/minerals, a comprehensive treatment system like WellFusion is recommended.


Proper maintenance is also key - replace water filters, flush pipes, and retest water annually. For severely contaminated water, more intensive commercial-grade systems may be required.

Our water treatment specialists can help select the right solutions after reviewing your test results. We also offer financing options to help cover the cost of recommended systems.

Protect Your Health with Clean Water

Don't ignore persistent metallic or chemical tastes in your water - take action to identify the root cause and proper treatment. Left untreated, elevated levels of iron, manganese, lead, copper, zinc, and other contaminants can negatively impact your health, home, and appliances over time.

Schedule your free water analysis with our team at Aqua-Wise today. We service all of Tampa Bay with affordable water treatment installations for homes and businesses. Invest in clean, safe water for better health and peace of mind.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

  • What is hard water?
    Answer: Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium.
  • What are the signs of hard water in Florida?
    Answer: Signs of hard water in Florida include white or yellowish buildup on faucets and appliances, soap scum in sinks and showers, and dry, itchy skin.
  • How does a water softener work?
    Answer: A water softener works by removing the minerals that cause water hardness and replacing them with sodium ions through a process called ion exchange.
  • How often should I add salt to my water softener?
    Answer: You should add salt to your water softener tank as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks, depending on your household water usage.
  • Is softened water safe to drink?
    Answer: Yes, softened water is safe to drink. However, if you have concerns about the sodium content, you may want to consider installing a reverse osmosis drinking water system.
  • What are the benefits of using a water softener in Florida?
    Answer: Benefits of using a water softener in Florida include softer, smoother skin, cleaner dishes and clothes, longer lifespan for appliances and plumbing, and reduced buildup on fixtures and surfaces.
  • How do I know if I need a water softener in Florida?
    Answer: If you notice signs of hard water, such as buildup on fixtures or appliances, soap scum, or dry skin, you may benefit from a water softener. You can also have your water tested to determine its hardness level.
  • Can I install a water softener myself?
    Answer: While it is possible to install a water softener yourself, it is recommended that you hire a professional to ensure proper installation and performance.
  • How much does a water softener cost in Florida?
    Answer: The cost of a water softener in Florida varies depending on the size and type of system, as well as installation and maintenance costs. On average, a basic system can range from $500 to $5,000.
  • How often should I have my water softener serviced in Florida?
    Answer: You should have your water softener serviced annually to ensure it is functioning properly and to maintain optimal performance.
  • What is reverse osmosis and how does it work?
    Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. Water is forced through the membrane, which traps pollutants and allows clean water to pass through.
  • What types of contaminants can reverse osmosis systems remove?
    Reverse osmosis systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, fluoride, lead, arsenic, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful particles.
  • Do I need a reverse osmosis system if I already have a water softener?
    A water softener and a reverse osmosis system serve different purposes. While a water softener removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium, a reverse osmosis system removes a wider range of contaminants.
  • Is reverse osmosis water safe to drink?
    Yes, reverse osmosis water is safe to drink. In fact, many people prefer the taste of reverse osmosis water over tap water due to its purity and lack of chemicals.
  • Do I need to replace the reverse osmosis membrane over time?
    Yes, the reverse osmosis membrane will need to be replaced periodically to ensure optimal performance of the system.
  • How often should I change the filters in my reverse osmosis system?
    It is recommended to change the filters in your reverse osmosis system every 6-12 months, depending on usage and water quality.
  • Can a reverse osmosis system be installed under my sink?
    Yes, most reverse osmosis systems are designed to fit under the sink for easy installation and convenience.
  • How much water does a reverse osmosis system waste?
    Reverse osmosis systems typically waste about 3-5 gallons of water for every gallon of purified water produced, but some systems are designed to be more efficient.
  • Will a reverse osmosis system remove beneficial minerals from my water?
    Yes, a reverse osmosis system will remove some beneficial minerals from your water along with the contaminants. However, these minerals can be easily replenished through a healthy diet or supplements.
  • Can I install a reverse osmosis system myself or should I hire a professional?
    While it is possible to install a reverse osmosis system yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and optimal performance of the system.

Reviews from our amazing customers

Alexandra O

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Tampa, FL

I recently had Aqua-Wise Water Treatment install a 96k grains water softener, carbon, and RO system in my home in Tampa. Living in an area with various contaminants, including PFAS, I was in search of a comprehensive water treatment solution, and Aqua-Wise delivered. The 96k grains water softener effectively addresses hard water issues, ensuring a noticeable improvement in water quality. The addition of a carbon filtration system enhances the removal of impurities, and the RO system provides an extra layer of purification, crucial for combating contaminants like PFAS.I can already feel the positive impact on both my appliances and overall well-being. Choosing Aqua-Wise Water Treatment has proven to be a wise decision, providing my family with clean, softened water that exceeds our expectations. I highly recommend their services to anyone in the Tampa area seeking a reliable and thorough water treatment solution.

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Mark H

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Pinellas Park, FL

I'm delighted to share my positive experience with Aqua-Wise.com. Their installation services for our point of entry and RO system were exceptional. The team exhibited professionalism and efficiency throughout the process. Additionally, opting for their financial option at just $69 made the entire service even more accessible for my family. We're thoroughly satisfied with the results and highly recommend Aqua-Wise for their quality work and flexible payment plans.

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Julia A

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Saint Petersburg, FL

Comments: I am so glad that I chose Aqua Wise for our water softener and RO installation. It was ultimately a decision for our health, but it's a big purchase and we wanted to make sure we were in good hands. Eyal explained everything every step of the way. You can tell he is very knowledgeable and passionate about water quality. He and his son came out quickly and the installation was seamless. We needed an electrician as well to come out and install a power supply, which Eyal also arranged for. They offer financing options as well, and they are reasonably priced in my opinion. I highly recommend Aqua Wise for your home's water needs, and supporting a local family owned business. Thank you Aqua Wise!

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