If you’ve ever noticed that your water filter smells like fish, you’re not alone. This is a common issue for many homeowners, and there are several reasons why it might happen.

While there are a few different explanations for why your water filter might smell like this, fortunately, most of them are easy to fix.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of this weird odor and provide you with some tips on how to get rid of it.

So if you’re curious about why your water filter smells like fish, keep reading.

What could the fishy smell be coming from?

Well, there are a few different explanations for why your water filter might smell like fish

To start, it’s important to understand that all water filters are different, so there isn’t just one single answer as to why your filter might smell like fish

That being said, let’s take a look at some common causes of fishy-smelling water filters:

Water contamination

One possible explanation for why your water filter smells like fish is because its filters water that contains a high quantity of organic materials

When you notice that your filter smells like this, it’s typically because there has been some sort of contamination within the system and these organic compounds have begun to grow and thrive.

This isn’t an issue with the actual filter itself but rather the water source; as noted above, all filters are different and some might be more prone to smelling like fish than others based on what kind of contaminants they’re able to filter out or trap within their cartridge.

With that being said, there are a few different ways to get rid of this fishy smell:

• Replace the filter

The biggest solution for getting rid of this odor is to replace your filter. While it might not be ideal, sometimes the easiest way to fix a problem is just to do away with it entirely and start fresh.

If your filter is fairly new, the best option would be to replace it completely with a brand-new one.

If your filter isn’t that old and you’re not ready for a whole new cartridge, then an alternative solution is to thoroughly clean out the old filter. To do this, simply soak it in a baking soda solution for around half an hour to eliminate all of the organic matter within.

After soaking, rinse off any leftover residue and allow the filter to air dry before returning it back into place.

• Run carbon or charcoal filters

Another solution that can help get rid of this fishy smell (and other similar odors) is running something called a ‘carbon filter’. This type of filtration system works by using activated carbon pellets to absorb any organic compounds in the water.

In addition, these types of filters can eliminate bad tastes and odors from your water.

If you don’t want to replace your filter entirely, this is a good alternative solution worth considering.

• Replace your water source

The last solution to consider is replacing your water source entirely. While it might not be the most feasible option for you (especially if you don’t mind paying a premium), one of the best ways to fix this issue is by installing a whole house filtration system.

This will allow you to filter all of the water in your home, which can eliminate any lingering odors that might be present within each of your faucets and fixtures.

How to get rid of musty smell in drinking water?

Another common reason why your water may have a musty or moldy smell is that there has been an excessive amount of bacteria growing within it for a period of time.

This can typically be due to a recent flood or burst pipe, as water damage can leave behind an abundance of organic materials.

If your filter is located within the water supply line leading to your faucet, this can be another way that musty smells make their way into your drinking water.

To get rid of it, you’ll want to inspect each fixture for any signs of leaks or drips. If you find any, shut off the main valve immediately before repairing or replacing the fixture.

If there isn’t anything wrong with your plumbing, then it’s usually due to the water source being contaminated.

To fix this, you’ll want to have your water tested – you can do this using a water test kit. If there are any contaminants present, try having a whole house filtration system installed, or consider switching your supply line to a different source.

Final Thoughts

The key thing is knowing that if your water filter has a fishy smell, it is usually not a sign of an underlying problem with your filter. Instead, it’s often due to something much more serious going on elsewhere that needs to be addressed in order for things to get back to normal.

It might take a bit of detective work and research depending on what’s causing the smell and where it’s emanating from, but once you determine what’s going on and get everything fixed – your water should be good as new.

If all else fails, just switch out your filter for a brand-new one. This is often the quickest solution that works for most lower-quality filters.