Common Water Problems We solve in Southeastern, MN

Here in the ABC Water Conditioning Service, Inc. community, a variety of factors can affect how water tastes, smells, and feels. That's why we test your water before we recommend how to treat it properly. Every home is different, and understanding what's in your water is the first step toward fixing it. Here are a few of the problems we commonly see and treat throughout the Southeastern, MN, area.

Bathroom sink overflowing with brown water from the faucet

Musty, Earthy, or Fishy Taste and Smell

If your water has an unpleasant musty, earthy, or fishy taste or odor, algae, molds, and bacteria are likely the cause. These microorganisms naturally live in water sources and can multiply within a home's plumbing system over time, making your water increasingly unpleasant — and potentially unsafe — to drink.

Cloudy Water


Cloudy or murky water is a sign that your water supply contains impurities that cause turbidity. Raw water enters your home carrying any number of suspended particles and contaminants that affect its clarity and quality. While it may not always indicate a health risk, cloudy water is a clear sign that filtration is needed.

Hard Water

Hard water is one of the most common water problems in the Southeastern, MN area. It dries out skin and makes hair brittle, causes soap scum buildup in tubs and showers, and leaves spots on faucets and fixtures. Over time, hard water causes scaling inside appliances like water heaters and dishwashers, resulting in reduced efficiency and costly repairs that could easily be avoided with the right water softener.

Brown water flowing from a faucet into a white sink
Hand pouring water from a faucet into a glass over a kitchen sink

Iron and Manganese

Iron and manganese are common contaminants in both well water and municipal supplies throughout southeastern Minnesota. These metals leave stubborn rust-colored stains on clothing, appliances, and fixtures and can give your water an unpleasant metallic taste and smell. Left untreated, iron and manganese buildup can also damage your plumbing over time.

Rotten Egg Smell

That distinctive rotten-egg odor coming from your water is caused by hydrogen sulfide gas. Even at low concentrations, hydrogen sulfide gives water an unpleasant taste and smell that can make it difficult — and unappealing — to use for drinking, cooking, or bathing. In higher concentrations, it can render water effectively unusable.

Water flowing from a chrome faucet into a white sink drain
Water pouring into a clear glass on a rustic wooden table, with an empty glass beside it.

Chlorine Taste or Smell

While municipalities rely on chlorine to disinfect public water supplies, it should be filtered out before the water reaches your taps. The taste and smell of chlorine are unappealing on their own, but chlorine also dries out your skin and hair and can deteriorate rubber seals in your plumbing and appliances over time. Whole-house dechlorination is a simple, effective solution.


Brown water pouring from a faucet into a white sink, staining the drain area

Not Sure What's in Your Water?


ABC Water Conditioning Service, Inc. is only a phone call away. We'll test your water, identify the problems, and recommend the right Kinetico® solution for your home. Call (507) 282-0315 today and let us know how we can help.