If you find the taste of chlorine unacceptable, a good solution is to draw off a jug of tap water
and keep this in the fridge. Not only will the chilled water taste better it will lose that chlorine
smell or taste. Do keep the jug covered though and don’t keep any water in the jug for more than
24 hours.

Taste and odour problems associated with washing
machines and dishwashers

Most dishwashers and washing machines are now connected directly to the mains water supply
but are sometimes not plumbed in correctly. All connections should include a single check valve
(also known as a non-return valve) so that water within the flexible hoses or the dishwasher or
washing machine itself, cannot return to the mains supply and reach the kitchen tap. If it does,
you are likely to get rubber or plastic tastes and odours in your tap
water. Also flexible hoses can deteriorate over time and release traces
of chemicals that can cause ‘chemical’ type tastes and odours that are
particularly noticeable with hot drinks. Fitting non-return valves will
prevent this problem.

FAQ: How can I check if the taste and odour in the water is due
to my washing machine or dishwasher?

A simple means of checking if the washing machine or dishwasher is
the cause is to temporarily turn off the valves which control the water
flow into the machine. Run the tap which you use for drinking water for
a short period to clear the pipes and then taste the water. If this solves
the taste problem, fit a single check valve (also known as a non-return
valve) on the end of the machine hose where it connects to the house-
hold pipework. Always ensure that any flexible hoses and tap washers
are Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) approved. Your water
company, plumbing supplier or DIY store should be able to advise you.

Look for the ‘WRAS Approved’ logo. This shows products that water
companies have checked and endorsed as complying with regulations to ensure they do not
affect drinking water quality.

For more information on approved materials see: Domestic Plumbing Tips, page 13.

Also visit www.wras.co.uk for more information.

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