Sarasota County has won multiple taste test contests throughout the years. Public Utilities has around-the-clock staff that sample the water daily and check technology throughout the county to give continuous feedback to our state certified operators.

Sometimes water can have aesthetically unpleasing qualities such as a different smell, taste or odor. Sarasota County is always willing to help with these concerns. Please see below for the most common quality concerns from customers and how to correct them.

This is Serratia Marcescens, which is an airborne bacterium.

• Wipe tubs, showers, curtains and drains dry and spray with a bleach product or disinfectant.
• Clean the toilet bowl regularly. You may wish to add ¼ cup of bleach to the toilet tank, let stand for 15-20 minutes, and then flush the bowl a couple of times to fully rinse the disinfectant. Bleach should not be left in the toilet tank for prolonged periods, as it will damage the rubber seals and valves inside.

If you still have concerns, please contact us at 941-861-6790.

This is most likely caused by utility work or flushing of water lines.

• This discoloration isn’t harmful, but it can stain, and we recommend letting the water run (in the tub, not the toilet) for a few minutes to get rid of any discoloration.

If the discoloration persists, please call us at 941-861-6790.

This could be caused by plumbing fixtures breaking down, sediment in the water heater, or utility work (main break or shutdowns).

• Start with flushing the water heater, then clean faucet aerators. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to replace the plumbing fixtures/seals.

If you still see particles in the water, please contact us at 941-861-6790.

The most common culprit is hydrogen sulfide gas (rotten egg smell).

• Fill a glass of water from the tap and walk away from the faucet before you take a sniff. We recommend walking out of the room. If you don’t notice the smell from the water when you change your location, then the smell is likely from the drain or pipes.
  • If you have determined that the smell is coming from the water, flush the water heater.
  • If you have determined that the smell is coming from the drain, fill the sink halfway and add a cup of bleach.

If you still smell the odor after trying these steps, please contact us at 941-861-6790.

Tips for Retaining or Restoring Water Quality in Buildings

If you own or manage a commercial building, a business or a seasonal residence and are considering reopening after a period of nonuse, remember to check the condition of the building’s water. If a property experiences extended periods where water sits or no water flows through pipes, it can lead to water quality issues and concerns.

Check out the links below for tips from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about restoring water quality in low-use properties and for reopening buildings after an extended vacancy.

Restoring Water Quality in Low-Use Properties
Restoring Water Quality In Buildings for Reopening