Spartanburg Water says taste-and-odor complaints are tied to algae, but the water is safe

Spartanburg Water says the musty or earthy taste some customers are noticing in tap water is tied to a natural issue in its reservoirs, not a safety problem. The utility’s June 15 update says current complaints are linked to naturally occurring algae and to MIB, a compound certain algae can release when water is warm and rainfall is low. Spartanburg Water says the water is safe to drink.

The FAQ says MIB can make water smell or taste like soil, lake water, or even a damp basement. That can be frustrating, but Spartanburg Water says the issue affects taste and odor, not the water’s safety. Residents do not need to panic over a taste change alone.

How long it may last

Spartanburg Water says most customers notice the smell or taste for a couple of weeks, though weather, lake conditions, and rainfall can speed that up or slow it down. The utility describes the problem as temporary.

What crews are doing now

According to Spartanburg Water, teams are monitoring lake conditions daily, adjusting treatment in real time, consulting experts, and using advanced treatment technology before raw water reaches the R.B. Simms Water Treatment Facility. The utility also says it can apply treatment in the reservoirs when needed to address the source of the taste and odor.

For customers, the practical takeaway is straightforward: keep watching for utility updates, but do not treat the taste-and-odor complaint as a contamination event or health emergency.

Sources

• Spartanburg Water News and Announcements