Some residents in the San Fernando Valley have reported an “earthy odor” coming from their drinking water, but officials say the cause of the smell is not harmful.
In a statement issued Monday, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power said they had received “inquiries and reports” from some customers regarding the smell and that they began testing which revealed the “musty” odor is attributable to Geosmin.
Geosmin is a natural compound created from algae, LADWP explained.
“Geosmin can be a nuisance to our customers but it is not harmful,” officials said. “It is an occasional and seasonal occurrence caused by changing water temperatures and sunlight.”
In Monday’s statement, LADWP said it began increasing its water quality monitoring, sampling and testing through the Los Angeles Aqueduct System earlier this month. Elevated Geosmin levels were detected on May 13, and “immediate adjustments” to treatment and operations were made to control the situation, LADWP said.
Residents can remove the odor at home by running their water through a carbon filter pitcher or a carbon filter in their refrigerator water line, the department of water and power advised.
Questions or concerns surrounding water quality should be directed to LADWP’s Water Quality Hotline: 213-367-3182.
While not harmful in drinking water, the American Chemical Society says Geosmin (C12H22O) can cause serious eye damage or irritation. Studies have shown that Yellow fever mosquitos (Aedes aegypti) are attracted to Geosmin, and the substance can be used as bait for mosquito traps.
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