There are several potential causes for water odors ranging from plumbing issues, naturally occurring earth chemicals such as Sulfur or in more extreme cases they can be produced by bacterial infected sources.
Many are harmless but to be sure it is important to quickly identify the causes of any smells or strange tastes coming from your water supply.

Sediment is formed from a variety of sources.
The most common form is from naturally occurring Iron and manganese found in most reservoirs.
Another form originates from household or building systems such as water heaters or brass plumbing fixtures. This type of buildup is either calcium carbonate or from brass corrosion called dezincification.

We recommend regular water testing to confirm your water supply is safe from pathogens. Coliform bacteria are members of a group of pathogens that may cause gastrointestinal ailments. Coliform infections usually result from ingesting contaminated food or water. Major coliform bacteria include Shigella, which causes dysentery. Certain strains of E. coli may cause urinary tract infections and salmonella.

A common telltale sign of acidic water is the presence of a blue-green staining on your plumbing fixtures.
An Acidic water condition is present when the water pH level is below 7. Alkaline water conditions exist when it is above 7. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recommended a pH between 6.5 and 8.5 for drinking water. Acidic drinking water can cause health problems through the leaching of heavy metals from plumbing systems. Over the years this can contribute to expensive repairs of leaking plumbing fixtures and pipes.

Chlorine is a chemical used in the public water supply to kill bacteria, making it safe for public consumption. Since the concentration is normally low, there is not usually a short-term concern. There is a growing concern about the long-term exposure to trihalomethanes and other disinfection by-products of Chlorine which have shown to be carcinogenic. Only a Chlorine test can tell what your Chlorine levels are, so it is a good idea to have your water tested periodically.

Manganese is a mineral commonly found in rocks and soil. The EPA recommends a limit of 0.05 mg/l manganese because exceeding this level will cause staining of fixtures, appliances, and clothes. For many industrial purposes, the manganese content should not exceed 0.01 to 0.02 mg/l. Manganese oxidizes slower than iron; it is more difficult to remove from water. An excessive Manganese level gives water a bitter, metallic taste and creates suspended specks, sediments, and stains.