Water Treatment
Shop Water Treatments at West Marine
If your boat's freshwater supply has taken on a musty taste, you may have an issue with your freshwater tank or plumbing system. Following are inspections you can perform and actions you can take to identify and address the problem.
Inspect the water tank and the water lines
Look for signs of contamination from external sources, such as crud that may have dropped into the tank when you were filling it or from your marina's water supply. Look also for signs of algae or bacterial growth which can manifest itself as a green, black or brown colored substance that builds up on the inner walls of water lines and tanks. The substance is most likely a biofilm, which is a slimy accumulation of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and algae that adhere to the inner walls of water lines and tanks and form a complex matrix. Biofilms, while not inherently dangerous, can give your water a musty taste and if not managed, possibly lead to health risks.
If the problems mentioned above are not present, we suggest you treat your water with West Marine Water Shock, which is formulated to remove disagreeable odor and that musty "boat water" taste.
Clean and sanitize the water tank and water lines
If you find signs of bacterial growth or other contamination in the tank or water lines, start by giving them a thorough cleaning. If you have access to the inside of the tank, use a mild detergent and a scrub brush to clean the the tank's interior. (Note: West Marine offers Todd's Fitting Relocation Kit, which includes a 4 1/2" access plate.) Flush the system with clean water multiple times to ensure all traces of cleaning agents are removed.
To sanitize the system, you can use a solution of household bleach mixed in a ratio of 1 quart of bleach to 50 gallons of water—or about 16 ounces of bleach for a 20 gallon tank. Alternatively, you can use West Marine Water Tank Flush Cleaner or one of several other marine water treatments that we offer which are formulated specifically for sanitizing water tanks and lines.
Replace water filters
If your boat has water filters, inspect and replace them regularly. Filters can become clogged or harbor bacteria, leading to a musty taste. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for filter replacement intervals.
Monitor external water sources
If you fill your boat's water tank from external sources, such as your marina's water supply, ensure the water quality is suitable for consumption. "City water" like what is available in most marinas in the United States is generally safe. This is not however true for the water in your dockside hose, which can develop copious amounts of bacteria if it is left in the sun. Because of this, we suggest you run your hose for a few minutes before filling your tank. If your boat is in a less developed country, where the quality of municipal water may be dicey, consider using water treatment methods like filters or purifiers and/or boil your water before use.