Spartanburg Water Taste & Odor FAQs

Why does my water taste or smell “funny?”

Right now, we’re seeing higher levels of a naturally occurring compound called MIB (Methylisoborneol) in our reservoirs. MIB comes from certain types of algae that grow in lakes and rivers—especially during stretches of warm weather and low rainfall, as we have had this winter. It can create an earthy or musty smell or taste, even though the water is still safe to drink.

What’s causing it?

As the algae naturally grows in the water, it releases MIB. This doesn’t harm the water, but it can make it smell a little like soil, lake water, or a damp basement, and the taste can seem different than usual.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. Your water is safe.

We test our water constantly—more than 250 checks every single day in our SCDES-certified lab—to make sure it meets all state and federal safety standards. MIB can change the taste and smell, but it does not affect the safety, purity, or quality of the water.

If you’d like to learn more, our latest Water Quality Report is always available here: https://www.spartanburgwater.org/waterqualityreports.

Is this just happening here?

No. This is a common seasonal issue for many water providers in South Carolina and across the country. Warm temperatures and changing weather patterns can make naturally occurring compounds like MIB more noticeable.

How long will this last?

It’s temporary. Most customers notice the taste or smell for a couple of weeks, although weather, lake conditions, and rainfall can speed it up or slow it down. We’ll continue working to reduce it as quickly as possible.

What is Spartanburg Water doing about it?

We’re actively managing the issue both in the reservoirs and at our treatment facilities. Our teams are:

• Consulting experts who advise drinking water utilities across the country on managing high levels of MIB.
• Monitoring lake conditions daily.
• Adjusting our treatment process in real time.
• Using advanced treatment technology, including our Advanced Oxidation System, before raw water reaches the R.B. Simms Water Treatment Facility.
• Applying treatment in the reservoirs when needed to address the source of the taste and odor.

Our certified operators are on it every step of the way.