RO water can develop a bad taste or unusual smell for several reasons, and it doesn't always mean that the purifier has a major problem. You may notice a bitter, salty, metallic, or musty taste when drinking the water, or a smell that wasn't there before. However, a sudden or persistent change in the water shouldn't be ignored, especially when you use the RO purifier for your daily drinking water.
In this article, we'll explain why RO water taste bad or smell odd, what you should check when it happens, and when the purifier needs professional repair.
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Why Does RO Water Taste Bad or Smell Odd?
Before you try any fixes, let's first look at what could be making RO water taste bad or smell odd.
The RO Membrane Is Not Working Properly
The RO membrane removes many dissolved substances from the water. When it becomes worn out, damaged, or stops performing properly, the purified water may develop a different taste. A noticeable change after months of normal use can be a sign that the membrane is no longer working as it should.
The Post-Carbon Filter Has Reached the End of Its Life
The post-carbon filter helps improve the taste and odour of water after the RO purification stage. Once the filter becomes exhausted, the water may start tasting flat, stale, or unpleasant even though the purifier continues to produce water normally.
The Water Has Been Sitting in the Storage Tank
Water that remains stored in the RO tank for a long time can develop a stale taste or odour, particularly when the purifier isn't used regularly. This can be more noticeable after the purifier has been unused for several days.
The Storage Tank Needs Cleaning
The inside of the storage tank can collect deposits or develop microbial growth over time, particularly when it isn't cleaned during routine servicing. Water may then pick up an unpleasant smell or taste while sitting in the tank.
The Purifier Has Not Been Serviced for a Long Time
Filters and other consumable components don't last indefinitely. When routine filter replacement and servicing are delayed, the purifier may gradually produce water with a noticeable change in taste or smell. The change can happen even though the unit still fills the tank and dispenses water normally.
The Incoming Water Quality Has Changed
A change in the source water can affect the taste of RO water even when the purifier itself has no fault. Changes in the municipal supply, groundwater, dissolved salts, or other characteristics of the incoming water can alter the final taste.
The Water Is Picking Up an Odour From the Storage or Dispensing Parts
If the taste or smell seems to come from the water only after it passes through the purifier, the issue may be around the storage or dispensing path. The tank, tubing, tap, or other water-contact components can affect the water's taste if they have accumulated residue or developed an odour.
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What Can You Check When RO Water Tastes Bad?
Now that you know what can make RO water taste bad, here are some checks you can do at home:
Flush the Purifier After Replacing Filters
If you have recently replaced the filters, flush the purifier as recommended in the user manual before drinking the water. This helps clear any loose carbon particles or residues left behind by the new filters.
Drain Stagnant Water
If the purifier hasn't been used for several days, empty the water already stored in it. Let the purifier produce a fresh batch before drinking from it again.
Clean the Storage Tank
Clean the storage tank according to the manufacturer's instructions and rinse it thoroughly before refilling it. Make sure no cleaning residue remains inside the tank.
Clean the RO Tap
Wipe the dispensing tap and its outlet with a clean cloth. If you notice any buildup around the opening, clean it carefully without pushing anything inside the tap.
Try the Water in a Clean Glass
Pour the RO water into a clean, odour-free glass and check its taste and smell. This helps rule out a dirty or strongly scented glass, bottle, or jug as the source of the unusual taste.
Check the Water From Another Source
Try the same water in a different clean container and compare it with your usual drinking water. A difference between containers can help narrow down where the unusual taste is coming from.
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When Should You Call a Professional?
By now, you know what can make RO water taste bad and what you can check at home. Here are some signs that your RO purifier needs professional attention:
The Water Still Tastes Bad After a Filter Change
You have replaced the required filters and flushed the purifier, but the water still has the same unpleasant taste. The problem may be with another part of the purification system.
The RO Water TDS Is Close to the Input Water TDS
If you have a TDS meter, compare the reading of the incoming water with the RO output. When there is very little difference between the two, the purifier may not be reducing dissolved solids properly.
Fresh RO Water Has a Strong Rotten-Egg Smell
The water smells strongly of sulphur or rotten eggs as soon as it comes from the RO tap. This isn't a normal taste issue that should be ignored.
The Purifier Is Taking Much Longer to Fill the Tank
The storage tank used to fill within a reasonable time, but now the purifier takes much longer to produce the same amount of water. A noticeable change in purification time along with bad-tasting water needs attention.
The Purifier Shows an Error or Filter Warning
An error code or filter warning appears on the purifier while you're also noticing a change in the water's taste or smell. The purifier should be checked according to the warning rather than continuing to use it as normal.
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Why Choose Eazzy for RO Repair?
Choosing the right repair service for RO water taste bad issues is important when basic checks don't solve the problem. Here's why Eazzy can be a good choice:
Doorstep RO Repair
There's no need to disconnect your RO purifier and take it to a service centre. A technician visits your home, checks the purifier, and carries out the required repair on-site whenever possible.
Detailed RO Inspection
The technician checks the purifier to find what is affecting the water quality. The inspection can cover the RO membrane, filters, storage tank, tubing, pump, valves, and other relevant components.
Compatible Replacement Parts
If a component needs replacement, Eazzy uses a compatible part that matches your RO purifier model. This helps ensure the replacement fits correctly and works with the existing system.
Water Quality Testing
After the repair, the technician checks the purifier's operation and water output to make sure the system is working properly. This helps confirm that the issue has been addressed before the service is completed.
Upfront Pricing
The estimated repair cost is shared before the repair starts. This gives you a clear idea of the charges in advance, without unexpected costs after the service is completed.
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Final Thoughts
To sum up, RO water taste bad issues can come from the filters, membrane, storage, water supply, or other parts of the purifier. We have covered the common reasons, the checks you can do at home, and the signs that indicate your RO purifier needs professional repair. If the water still tastes or smells unusual after the basic checks, Eazzy can inspect the purifier, identify the problem, and carry out the required repair.
