Why Reverse Osmosis Water Smells Like Fish

Reverse osmosis is a vital residential water filtering technique that removes most contaminants from our water by pushing it under high pressure through a specialized, semi-permeable membrane that stops contaminants with larger molecules than water from passing through. The water produced by reverse osmosis has lower sodium and fewer contaminants, bacteria, and parasites. Reverse osmosis produces clean drinking water without the use of harsh chemicals like chlorine.

Can You Drink Reverse Osmosis Water?

Reverse osmosis water is safe to drink as most of the contaminants and toxins will have been filtered by the membrane. The only concern with reverse osmosis water is that it has been demineralized. The process of removing contaminants also removes some of the good qualities of the water, including tooth-strengthening fluoride.

However, reverse osmosis water is considered healthier than tap water in many countries. Although this water purification process removes minerals from water, it also removes contaminants that have a negative health impact, especially on those with compromised immune systems.

Why Does Reverse Osmosis Water Smell Like Fish?

1. Naturally occurring material One of the main reasons reverse osmosis water smells like fish is due to the presence of organic material in the water source, including barium, a common material in mineral ores that seeps into pipes and wells.
2. Algal blooms Water reservoirs and lakes have an increase in algal bloom, especially in the summer months, due to the direct sunlight and warmer temperature. Generally, water treatment plants get rid of the algae, but small particles can remain and leave a fishy smell.
3. Chloramine Chloramine is made from a combination of chlorine and ammonia. If the water going through the reverse osmosis system has been treated with this chemical, it could result in an unpleasant smell.