Got 'earthy' water? Here's how you can combat the taste, smell caused by algae growth

Sick of the earthy taste and smell of your water but don't want to buy environmentally unfriendly plastic water bottles?

There are a few solutions to combat the "seasonal taste and odor issues" that Wilmington's water supply is facing. (And before you scroll further, yes, the water remains safe to drink despite its aesthetic unpleasantness.)

Wilmington water officials and other municipalities that have dealt with these issues say the easiest solution is to pour tap water into a pitcher and refrigerate it overnight. Any old pitcher will do, officials say − it doesn't need to have a filter.

On the topic of water filters, however, those with carbon (such as Brita) can also help mitigate the smell and taste. These can be a good option for those who don't want to wait overnight for more palatable water.

If you're not looking to buy a filter, adding a slice or two of lemon can also help mask the taste and smell. This is a cheap, quick alternative to buying a carbon filter.

What's causing the taste and odor issues?

This is certainly not the first time that Delaware drinking water − or water supplies elsewhere across the country − has had an earthy or musty smell and taste to it.

It's caused by algae growth, which is removed by treatment plants before the water makes its way to the public. The odor and taste caused by the algae can remain, however.

While the issues only appear to be affecting Wilmington's supply thus far, the city water department does service homes and businesses outside of city limits. Residents in unincorporated New Castle County who get their water from the city department have also been affected.

In a Monday news release, Wilmington said its water department was "taking additional steps to address these aesthetic issues throughout our treatment processes."

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A recently completed engineering analysis that "evaluated additional treatment technologies" led to recommendations that the city add "an enhanced capability to address these issues."

"However, the current issues will likely remain at some level until weather conditions improve and the ability for algae to grow in our source water is reduced," the release said. "While the weather conditions creating the algal issues cannot be prevented, we will continue to explore long-term solutions."

Got a tip? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com or 302-324-2785. For all things breaking news, follow her on X at @izzihughes_