What Causes Rotten Egg Smells in Water?
Understanding Sulfur Smells, Causes, and Solutions
Foul smells may be more than an embarrassment; they could indicate an underlying plumbing or water quality issue. For over 25 years, CW Service Pros has been helping homeowners in Dallas-Fort Worth with water quality solutions. We can quickly diagnose and resolve water odor problems, especially if you're smelling a sulfuric, rotten egg aroma from your water. Here's what you need to know about the causes and best solutions to restore clean, fresh water in your home.
What Causes the Rotten Egg Smell in Water?
Identifying the root cause is the first step toward eliminating the smell. A few common causes are explained below.
Bacteria in Your Water Heater
If the rotten egg smell is only noticeable in hot water, it's likely due to sulfate-reducing bacteria inside your water heater. The bacteria feed on magnesium anode rods, commonly found in water heaters, to leave hydrogen sulfide gas as a byproduct.
Plumbing System Issues
Bacteria buildup in pipes or drains can also create a sulfur smell, even if the water supply is clean. Corroded pipes can introduce sulfates into the water, amplifying the odor.
How to Fix Rotten Egg Smells in Water
Once you determine the source of the odor, the right solution can help eliminate the issue permanently.
Flushing Your Water Heater
The water heater is likely the culprit if the smell is only present in hot water. The solution may be as simple as flushing the heater to remove bacteria and sediment buildup. Afterward, consider replacing the magnesium anode rod with a new aluminum or zinc alloy rod to prevent future bacterial growth.
Installing a Water Filtration System
A whole-house water filtration system can help with ongoing sulfur odor problems
- Activated carbon filters absorb hydrogen sulfide, eliminating odors.
- Reverse osmosis systems strip everything from the water and remove bacteria, contaminants, and odors at the source, then they remineralize the water for taste.
- Water softeners with iron removal filters or descalers can also address water quality concerns.
At CW Service Pros, we offer tailored water filtration solutions and can recommend the best system for your home's needs.
Hydrogen Sulfide in Your Water Supply
Some groundwater sources contain naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide. If your home has a natural well, you may be more likely to experience sulfur smells due to decaying organic material in the soil.
FAQs About Rotten Egg Smells in Water
If you smell rotten eggs in your water supply, you undoubtedly have questions. CW Service Pros has answers.
Why Does My Water Smell Like Sulfur?
Water can smell like sulfur due to naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide, bacteria buildup in your water heater, or contamination in your plumbing system. It's most common in homes with well water or older plumbing systems, but can also occur from build up in the water heater.
How Do I Fix Bad Odors in My Water?
The solution to smells in your water depends on the source:
- If only the hot water smells, flush the water heater and replace the anode rod.
If all water smells, test your water supply for hydrogen sulfide. - If you have well water, shock your well system with chlorine bleach.
- For long-term solutions, install a whole-house filtration system to remove contaminants.
Not sure where to start? CW Service Pros provides professional water quality assessments to help identify and fix odor issues efficiently.
Contact CW Service Pros for Water Odor Solutions
No one should have to deal with foul-smelling tap water. If you're experiencing rotten egg smells in your home's water, CW Service Pros is here to help. We proudly offer:
- Live 24/7 customer support
- Same-day service guarantee
- Licensed & insured water quality experts
- Upfront pricing with no surprises
Call CW Service Pros today or book an appointment online to eliminate foul water odors and restore fresh, clean water to your home!
