City responds to claims of “earthy” tasting water

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO)– Officials with the City of Columbia water department say they have received several complaints about an earthy taste in the drinking water in downtown.

Officials say it is the result of elevated algae levels in the water and is harmless.

A spokesman for the city says the water department is using activated carbon to reduce the taste and odor issues.

Statement from the City of Columbia:

Columbia Water Continues to Treat for Earthy Water Taste

Some Columbia Water customers continue to notice a musty aftertaste to their tap water, especially in the downtown Columbia area. This is related to elevated algae levels in the raw water, and it is harmless. We realize, though, that this is a nuisance for our customers, and we are continuing to employ the treatment processes that have been in place since this taste and odor situation was first noticed a few weeks ago.

Algae levels continue to rise and fall, but we will treat for it until we are convinced it is no longer a problem. To learn more about the issue and how we are treating it, please visit our web page at https://columbiascwater.net/geosmin-and-mib/.

For taste and odor problems that need immediate attention, please call our Customer Care line at 803-535-3300 so we can initiate flushing activities. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to resolve the issue.