How to Fix Rotten Egg Smell in Your Water

Complete Guide to Eliminating Sulfur Odors from Your Water Supply

Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs? (Top Causes of Sulfur Odor)

The sulfur smell in water is typically due to the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S), which can originate from several sources:

1. Hydrogen Sulfide Gas in Water Supply (Groundwater, Well Water, City Water)

Hydrogen sulfide gas can occur naturally in groundwater due to the decay of organic matter or the presence of specific geological formations containing sulfates. While common in well water, it can also affect city water if pipes or supply lines become contaminated.

2. Sulfur Bacteria (Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria) in Water Heater or Pipes

Sulfur-reducing bacteria (SRB) thrive in oxygen-deficient, warm environments, making your water heater a prime breeding ground. These bacteria react with naturally occurring sulfates in the water and the magnesium or aluminum anode rod inside tank-style water heaters, producing hydrogen sulfide gas as a byproduct.

3. Corroded Plumbing Pipes

Older galvanized steel or iron pipes can corrode over time, reacting with the water and releasing a metallic, rotten egg odor. This often indicates a wider plumbing issue that might require professional attention.

4. Contaminated Water Source (Especially Well Water)

Wells located near oil fields, coal deposits, sewage lines, or septic systems may have higher sulfur content or be susceptible to contamination that introduces sulfur-producing bacteria.

Is Smelly Water Dangerous? Health Risks Explained

While low levels of hydrogen sulfide in drinking water are not usually harmful to health (it’s primarily an aesthetic problem due to its unpleasant taste and odor), they can cause:

• Unpleasant Taste & Odor: Making water unpalatable for drinking, cooking, and even showering.
• Stomach Discomfort: Sensitive individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Pipe Corrosion: Over time, hydrogen sulfide can corrode various metals in your plumbing system, leading to leaks, black stains on silverware and plumbing fixtures, and premature appliance failure.

How to Fix Rotten Egg Smell in Water (DIY Methods)

Before calling a professional, you can try these common DIY solutions:

1. Flush & Disinfect Your Water Heater

• Drain the Tank: This removes sediment buildup that can harbor sulfur bacteria.
• Replace the Anode Rod: If your water heater uses a magnesium anode rod, consider replacing it with an aluminum-zinc alloy rod, which is less likely to contribute to H2S production.
• Shock Chlorinate the Tank: Follow manufacturer guidelines or consult a professional for proper disinfection using a chlorine bleach solution.

2. Shock Chlorinate Your Well (For Well Water Users)

If the smell is present in both hot and cold water from all faucets, the issue might be with your well. Shock chlorination involves introducing a high concentration of chlorine (bleach or hydrogen peroxide) into your well to kill sulfur bacteria. Always follow EPA guidelines for safe disinfection and flush the system thoroughly afterward.

3. Install a Water Filtration System

For persistent odors, a water filtration system can be highly effective:

• Activated Carbon Filters: These are effective for removing low levels of sulfur odors and other contaminants.
• Oxidation Filters (e.g., Manganese Greensand Filters): For higher H2S levels, these filters oxidize hydrogen sulfide into solid sulfur particles, which are then filtered out.
• Chlorine Injection Systems: These systems inject chlorine to oxidize H2S and kill bacteria, often followed by an activated carbon filter to remove residual chlorine.
• Ozone Treatment: For very high concentrations of H2S, ozone is a powerful oxidant that can precipitate sulfur.

4. Check & Replace Corroded Pipes

If the smell is localized to specific faucets or appears with older plumbing, inspect your pipes. If they are old galvanized steel or iron and show signs of corrosion, consider repiping with modern materials like PEX or copper.

When to Call a Professional Plumber? (907 Heating & Plumbing Solutions)

If DIY methods don’t work, or if you suspect a more serious issue, 907 Heating & Plumbing can provide expert solutions:

Conclusion

A rotten egg smell in your water is definitely annoying, but it’s almost always a fixable problem! Start with simple DIY methods like flushing your water heater or trying a basic filter. If the problem persists, or if you’re concerned about potential health risks or underlying issues, 907 Heating & Plumbing offers expert plumbing services to ensure you have clean, fresh, and odor-free water.