H2knOw: Summertime and the Ohio River

Why some people may notice a difference in their drinking water

Providing safe, high-quality water is Louisville Water Company’s top priority year-round.  And for our customers, the way it tastes and smells is usually the first perception of quality.

Spoiler alert: it’s been hard to escape the hot, muggy weather lately and we’ve experienced more dry spells than rainfall. And weather does affect the quality of the water from our source, the Ohio River.

With higher temperatures and lower flow rates in the river, treating the water is more challenging. Here’s what’s happening and how you can help ensure that the Louisville Pure Tap® being delivered to your faucet continues tasting and smelling great!

Are you noticing a difference in the taste or odor of your water?

Our water quality scientists monitor your water 24/7 and proactively treat the water depending on river conditions. Sometimes these issues surface during stretches of hot and dry weather.

They’re caused by algae blooming in the river that can make the water taste and smell musty.  It’s not harmful but some people (especially those with a heightened sense of smell and taste) may notice a difference.

Adding ice or chilling water before you drink it can often help minimize any taste and odor issues.

Have questions?

Check out Louisville Water’s diagnostic tool to help you troubleshoot your water quality concern.