In its pristine state, water is colorless, tasteless and odorless. So, if your water tastes or smells funny, you should certainly find out why. An earthy or musty taste and odor is generally the result of compounds released due to decayed vegetation and are typically associated with different forms of algae. While not toxic, they are still unpleasant. A "Rotten Egg" smell is another common source of smelly water which is a "hydrogen sulphide". Hydrogen sulphide is a colorless corrosive gas which has the characteristic odor of rotten eggs. If present in high enough concentrations, it can also leave an unpleasant odor on hair and clothing. It can also accelerate corrosion of metal parts in appliances. A "Metallic Taste" implies the presence of metals such as iron, copper, manganese or zinc. Iron and manganese are often naturally occurring and are predominately found in groundwater. Copper and zinc can come from an aging water distribution system or from the corrosion of copper plumbing and brass fittings.
