Water quality, particularly well water, is sometimes affected by
natural, organic sources. Does your water have a bitter taste
or a musty odor? Is it yellow in color? If this describes your
water, tannins may be the culprit. Tannins are natural substances
which come from plants or soil. When tannins are present in
household and drinking water they may cause issues related to taste,
color and odor of water*.
Your well water may have tannins in it if you notice:
- Water is
yellow or tea colored
- Water has a
musty or earthy odor
- Drinking water
has a bitter or tart taste
- Laundry is
discolored and doesn't smell fresh
- Yellow stains
on household fixtures and dishes
Fortunately, the presence of tannins or other contaminants can
be tested for by your local water professional, your Culligan Man. He will then be able to use these test results, and his knowledge of your local water conditions, to prepare a
recommendation for providing you with better water.
There are no health concerns associated with tannins. However,
if you believe you may have tannins or other contaminants in your
water, we suggest you get your water
tested (2). Your Culligan Man may also recommend testing
your water for sulfates, alkalinity, iron, total dissolved
solids (TDS) and hard water, as these may help determine which
water treatment method will be most effective (3). He can not only
test your water, but is a great resource to recommend a Culligan
whole house water treatment solution to fit your specific needs.
You can also visit Culligan's online Solution Center to help
pinpoint specific water issues by touch, taste, smell and even
appearance (such as the color).
*Tannins and other contaminants are not necessarily in
your water.
Sources:
1)
http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/waterquality/iron.html
2)
http://www.gov.ns.ca/nse/water/docs/droponwaterFAQ_HumicSubstances.pdf
3)
http://www.watersystemscouncil.org/VAiWebDocs/WSCDocs/96111501_Tannins.pdf
