Ekurhuleni communities may have experienced an earthy taste and petricoh odour in their water recently.
This is due to the presence of geosmin that mostly occurs in the summer season.
“There is no need to be alarmed, the water is safe to drink,” said acting spokesperson for the metro, Zweli Dlamini.
Geosmin is an organic synthesis made up of a type of actinobacteria found in surface water.
The odour intensifies due to increased densities of blue-green algae which is normally found on the surface water of the Vaal Dam during the summer.
Rand Water has assured the public that they have put in an extensive water quality-monitoring programme.
“Should there be an increase in frequency and duration of geosmin occurrences, precautionary measures will be taken to remedy the problem,” Rand Water disclosed.
Although geosmin is harmless, Rand Water has put together a few tips to help those who are sensitive to the flavour to offset the taste:
• Use a carbon filter. While the filter may not eliminate the taste entirely, using one can improve the flavour and make water more palatable.
• Invest in a reverse-osmosis water-treatment system; this is the most effective system for removing all geosmin from the water.
• Cool 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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