Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The water is safe for all standard uses, including drinking, cooking, and bathing. It continues to meet all primary health and safety standards set by the EPA and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.

Geosmin and Methyl Isoborneol (MIB) are naturally occurring compounds produced by algae blooms in surface water, such as Moss Lake. They cause an earthy or musty taste and odor. These compounds are not harmful. They may affect the taste and smell of the water, but they do not affect its safety.

Yes. The City's drinking water continues to meet all primary health-based standards set by the EPA and the State of North Carolina.

The current taste and odor issues some residents are experiencing are considered secondary characteristics affecting taste, odor and appearance and do not affect the safety of the water. 

We take all health concerns seriously. If you feel unwell, we strongly encourage you to seek medical guidance from a healthcare professional.

The change in taste and smell is due to natural conditions in our water source, Moss Lake. When environmental conditions change, algae levels can increase. This produces the compounds geosmin and MIB, which create an earthy or musty smell similar to soil after it rains.

To help isolate the source of the issue, it is also helpful to evaluate household plumbing. Interior pipes, water heaters, and faucets can sometimes affect water quality within a specific home.