Geosmin in Longwood Florida Water

Unhealthy Levels of Geosmin in the Water Supply of Longwood Florida Homes

Geosmin is a natural compound that can give water an earthy or musty smell and taste, even when the water looks clear. Many Longwood homeowners first notice it coming from the cold tap or when filling a glass, describing a pond- or dirt-like aroma. It comes from certain algae and bacteria in surface waters and can find its way into a drinking supply, producing noticeable odor and flavor changes rather than visible discoloration, which can make everyday use less pleasant around the house.

People can smell geosmin at extremely low levels, so small amounts may affect drinking water, ice, coffee, and cooking in Longwood kitchens. Showers can also seem less fresh because warm water releases that earthy scent into the air. Boiling water usually won’t fix it and may even make the odor more noticeable as steam carries it. When the smell appears seasonally or intermittently, it’s often related to changes in source waters rather than anything inside your plumbing system in Seminole County.