A chemical taste in the water deserves attention, since it can mean a treatment byproduct or a contamination event. Testing identifies what is in the glass.
The chlorine
The most common chemical taste is chlorine, added by the utility to disinfect. humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often In New Orleans, the level is safe but noticeable.
The byproducts
Disinfection byproducts can form when chlorine meets organics, adding a chemical note. humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often In New Orleans, the byproducts are regulated.
The pipes
New pipes or fittings can leach a chemical taste into the water. humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often In New Orleans, the taste follows a recent installation.
The contamination
A true contamination event is rare but serious, and the taste is the warning. humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often In New Orleans, the utility notifies when it happens.
The test
A lab test identifies the compounds behind the taste. humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often In New Orleans, the results settle whether it is cosmetic or a concern.
The fix
Carbon filtration removes chlorine and many byproducts, improving the taste. humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often In New Orleans, a pro can install the filter.
The call
Identify the chemical before drinking. Call 888-217-3585 and New Orleans Home Plumbing Co will match you with a New Orleans pro who tests.
Plumbing in New Orleans: what to know
In New Orleans, humid conditions and older housing stock mean corroded fittings and slow drains show up often. Pros in our network know the local quirks and bring the right parts on the first visit.
Across Orleans County — from Gretna, Westwego and Harahan to ZIP codes like 70128, 70127, 70126 — homeowners deal with the same kinds of issues. The tips above apply locally, and when a job goes beyond a quick fix, a vetted local pro is only a call away.
Need a hand in New Orleans?
If a plumbing issue is beyond a quick fix, don't wait for it to get worse. Call 888-217-3585 and New Orleans Home Plumbing Co will match you with a vetted local pro — usually within minutes. Learn more about plumbing help in New Orleans.