Quick Answer:
If only the kitchen tap water tastes metallic, the problem is usually limited to the kitchen branch or the faucet itself, not the whole supply. Start by comparing another fixture, then isolate under‑sink parts (aerator, cartridge, shutoff valves). If the taste persists after simple checks, stop drinking that water and call a professional or your water utility for testing.
Why This Happens
- Localized corrosion inside the faucet, aerator, or supply lines can add a metallic flavor to water that doesn’t affect other taps.
- Galvanic corrosion happens when two different metals touch in wet conditions—for example copper to steel—and can give a sharp metallic taste.
- Stagnant water in a short branch line or in supply tubing under the sink can concentrate metal ions if a fitting or fixture is degrading.
- Recent work on plumbing or pressure changes can release metal particles or residues into a kitchen line. If that sounds familiar, check related notes like Pennies smell after pressure surge and Metallic smell after plumbing repair.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Compare with another tap
Test a bathroom sink against the kitchen sink. Run the cold tap in the bathroom for 30–60 seconds, smell and taste (carefully) a small sip. Then do the same at the kitchen cold tap. If the bathroom water tastes normal, the issue is likely confined to the kitchen branch, faucet, or under‑sink hardware.
2. Flush the kitchen line
- Run cold water at full flow from the kitchen cold tap for 2–5 minutes. Metals and residues often clear with a good flush.
- Do the same for the hot tap separately—hot water can dissolve more contaminants and taste worse.
3. Remove and inspect the aerator
- Unscrew the screen/aerator at the faucet tip, check for debris, rust, or discoloration, and rinse it. Taste the water with the aerator removed to see if the flavor changes.
4. Check under‑sink shutoffs and supply lines
- Shut the cold shutoff under the sink, then open the faucet to see if the taste disappears when supply is isolated. If an inline valve or flexible supply line smells or appears corroded, that points to a local part needing replacement.
5. Test other nearby appliances
- Try water from the refrigerator/ice maker or dishwasher supply if those are tied to the same kitchen branch. If they’re affected, the issue may be at a common connection or valve.
6. Collect a sample for testing if needed
- If flushing and part swaps don’t help, stop drinking the water and get a certified water test for metals (lead, copper, iron). Your water utility can advise on testing or you can hire a lab.
7. Replace suspect components
- If the aerator, cartridge, or flexible supply line shows corrosion or the taste disappears when those are isolated, replace the faulty part. Use parts rated for potable water.
What Not to Do
- Do not open walls before isolating the branch. Inspect and isolate visible fixtures and supply lines first.
- Do not assume hot water is safe—hot water often contains higher dissolved metals; avoid using it for drinking or cooking until the issue is resolved.
- Do not use strong chemical cleaners in the plumbing to mask taste issues; they can make testing and repairs harder and introduce new hazards.
When to Call a Professional
- If the metallic taste persists after flushing and replacing simple parts.
- If you find visible corrosion, leaks, or failing fittings under the sink.
- If a certified water test shows metal concentrations above safe limits (for example, detectable lead or very high copper/iron).
- If multiple fixtures show the same taste—this could indicate a main supply problem that your water utility or a licensed plumber should investigate.
Safety Notes
- If the taste is strong or you suspect contamination, avoid drinking or cooking with the affected water. Use bottled water until the issue is cleared.
- Do not taste large amounts of water to check for contamination—use small sips only for quick comparisons, and stop if you feel unwell.
- When in doubt about metal contamination, get a lab test and follow guidance from your water supplier or a licensed plumber before making repairs that involve cutting or replacing supply lines.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Q: Is a metallic taste dangerous?
A: A mild metallic taste is often unpleasant but not immediately dangerous; persistent taste or positive metal test results require action. - Q: Will a faucet replacement fix it?
A: Replacing a corroded faucet or supply line often fixes a localized metallic taste, but test first to confirm the kitchen branch is the source. - Q: Can my water heater cause this taste in the kitchen only?
A: Unlikely if the taste is only at the kitchen cold tap; hot water issues can affect kitchen hot taps but wouldn’t explain a cold kitchen-only taste.
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.