My water has an earthy or musty taste and odor sometimes in the late summer and sometimes fall. What causes this?
The musty or earthy taste and odor is caused by an algae bloom at the lake. Texas lakes are prone to a blue green algae bloom around July and August, which creates problems in the treatment process. The algae is removed during the treatment process but leaves behind the odor and taste problems experienced by customers.

The water is treated at the HRWS (TRA) plant with activated carbon to aid in the control this harmless nuisance. Customers often ask City forces to flush fire hydrants in an effort to control this problem. The odor and poor taste clears as the algae levels slowly return to normal.

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1. Sometimes the water is brownish or even yellow in color, why is this?
2. My water has an earthy or musty taste and odor sometimes in the late summer and sometimes fall. What causes this?
3. Sometimes the tap water appears white and milky, why is this?
4. Sometimes I have small particles clogging my faucets and shower head, what is this material?
5. What is the white substance left behind in the pot when we boil water?
6. Occasionally I see water running and no one repairing it, why is this?
7. Why do i see fire hydrants running and no one around? Why are we wasting water?
8. Can I use the cut off valve in the meter box to turn off the water to my house?
9. It there chlorine in the drinking water?
10. Is fluoride added during the treatment process?
11. How can I obtain a chemical analysis report on the drinking water?
12. How is my water/sewer/garbage bill calculated?
13. How can I avoid paying the minimum charge for my sprinkler meter when I am not using it?
14. Why is my kitchen sink stopped up?
15. How large is Huntsville's water system?