EKURHULENI customers may have experienced an unusual odour in their tap water – this is due to the presence of geosmin, which mostly occurs in the hot summer season. There is no need to be alarmed, the water is safe to drink.
Geosmin is a naturally occurring compound produced by bacteria in soil and algae found in surface water. The intensity of these odours is related to the increased densities of blue-green algae on the water surface of the Vaal Dam during the summer.
Rand Water has put in place an extensive water quality monitoring programme. Should there be an increase in the frequency and duration of geosmin occurrences, precautionary measures will in due course be taken to remedy the problem.
Geosmin is harmless, however those who are very sensitive to the taste of geosmin can offset it by:
- Using a carbon filter. While the filter may not eliminate the taste entirely, using one can improve the flavour and make water more palatable.
- Investing in a reverse-osmosis water-treatment system. This is the most effective system for removing all geosmin from the water.
- Cooling your water in the fridge. The colder water will make your taste buds less receptive to the flavour of geosmin (this is a temporary solution).
Customers are advised to visit www.reservoir.co.za for more information on the water quality in their area.
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