Pennies smell from faucet

Kitchen faucet producing penny-like metallic odor

Quick Answer:

A metallic or “penny” smell from a tap usually comes from metal in your plumbing or water heater reacting with water. It is often not a sign that pipes are about to fall apart, but it should not be ignored. Start by isolating the source, checking hot and cold supplies, and avoiding strong cleaners that only mask the problem. If the smell keeps returning or water looks discolored, call a plumber.

Why This Happens

  • Corrosion or buildup on copper, brass, or iron parts can release metal ions that smell metallic.
  • Water heaters can concentrate metals or react with sacrificial anode rods, making hot water taste or smell different from cold.
  • Stagnant water in a seldom-used fixture can pick up odors from the drain or from deposits inside the faucet.
  • Changes in pressure or recent plumbing work can disturb deposits and release a brief metallic smell.
  • Sometimes bacteria that live on mineral deposits create smells that people describe as metallic. If the smell is only from hot taps, see Metallic taste only in hot water.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Isolate which taps are affected

  • Run the cold faucet and the hot faucet separately. Note whether the smell is in cold, hot, or both.
  • Smell water away from the drain to isolate true odor. (Hold a cup of water and smell it without fumes from the sink.)

2. Check nearby fixtures and appliances

  • Try a different sink, bathtub, or outside hose to see if the issue is whole-house or one fixture.
  • If only one faucet smells, remove and inspect the aerator and the faucet spout for buildup.

3. Flush lines and test again

  • Run the affected tap for several minutes to clear stagnant water and loose deposits.
  • If the smell appears after a recent pressure change or water main work, review the possibility of disturbed deposits — see Pennies smell after pressure surge.

4. Inspect the water heater

  • If the smell is only on hot water, the heater may be the source. Flushing the heater can help remove sediment.
  • Do not attempt internal repairs on the heater without turning off power or gas and following manufacturer guidance. If you are unsure, call a professional.

5. Consider testing and next steps

  • Use bottled or filtered water for drinking until you confirm the tap water is fine.
  • If simple cleaning and flushing don’t stop the smell, have water tested for metals. A plumber can advise whether pipe replacement, fixture repair, or water treatment is needed.

What Not to Do

  • Do not mask penny smell with cleaners. That hides the issue and can introduce harmful chemicals into the water.
  • Do not pour chemicals into the water heater or plumbing without professional advice.
  • Do not assume the smell is harmless if it is strong or accompanied by discoloration — get it checked.

When to Call a Professional

  • The smell persists after flushing and cleaning fixtures.
  • Only hot water smells metallic, or discoloration and staining appear at faucets.
  • There are signs of corrosion, leaks, or visible damage to pipes or fixtures.
  • Anyone in the house has unusual symptoms after using tap water, or you want a definitive water quality test.

Safety Notes

  • Until you know the cause, avoid drinking or cooking with water that smells strongly metallic.
  • Use bottled water for babies, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system if you suspect contamination.
  • Turn off the gas or power to a water heater before attempting any maintenance, and follow manufacturer safety steps. When in doubt, hire a licensed plumber or technician.

Common Homeowner Questions

  • Q: Can a metallic smell mean lead is in my water?
    A: A metallic smell can come from several metals; testing is the only way to confirm lead or other contaminants.
  • Q: Will flushing the pipes remove the smell?
    A: Flushing often helps if the cause is stagnant water or loose deposits, but it may not fix corrosion or water heater issues.
  • Q: Is it safe to use the water for washing dishes or showering?
    A: Washing and showering are usually safe for short-term use, but avoid ingesting the water until the cause is found.

Related Articles

If you’re troubleshooting a similar symptom, these guides may help:

For the full directory, see Metallic Taste, Copper Taste, or “Pennies” Smell.

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