Hot water smells like rotten eggs: causes and how to fix it

Why Does My Hot Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs?

The most frequent cause of hot water smells like rotten eggs is hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) in the water. Usually, the sulfur bacteria in your water—especially in the hot water tank—interact with specific minerals to produce this gas. As a consequence of eating sulfur, these bacteria also create hydrogen sulfide, which smells strongly of rotten eggs.

The warm temperature and the presence of magnesium and aluminum, which are frequently present in the anode rods of hot water heaters, provide the ideal environment for these bacteria to flourish in the water in your hot water tank. The anode rod can react with sulfate ions in the water to generate hydrogen sulfide gas, while being essential for avoiding tank corrosion. Because well water frequently includes greater quantities of naturally occurring sulfates, this response is particularly prevalent in houses that utilize it. The odor may be caused by rotting organic matter in the water source in addition to bacterial pollution. This is less frequent; however, it can happen in water sources near biological waste or decomposing plants that break down and release sulfur compounds into the water.

New Hot Water Heater Smells Like Rotten Eggs: What’s Happening?

You’re not the only one who installed a new hot water heater and is taken aback to discover that your hot water smells like rotten eggs. Surprisingly, this problem happens frequently and usually arises shortly after a new unit is installed.

The interaction between the sulfates in the water and the heater's anode rod is one of the main causes, particularly in systems that use well water. Usually composed of magnesium or aluminum, the anode rod's purpose is to draw corrosion to itself rather than the tank's liner, preventing rusting of the tank. Nevertheless, doing so could create circumstances that promote the release of hydrogen sulfide gas, which is what gives rotting eggs their odor.

The introduction of microorganisms during the installation procedure is another potential cause. The warm, wet atmosphere of a hot water tank may quickly proliferate, even minute amounts of germs. Soon after your new water heater is filled and turns on, these bacteria may start to produce hydrogen sulfide if your water supply includes sulfur.

Furthermore, leftover water from earlier installations or manufacturing operations may remain behind in the tank or pipes, contributing to the odor. This water could have reacted with the components of the new heater, giving it a short-lived yet disagreeable smell.

How to Fix Hot Water That Smells Like Rotten Eggs

There are many actions you may take to address and resolve the problem if you discover that the smell coming from your hot water is like rotten eggs. The best ways to deal with this unpleasant issue are listed below:

1. Change out the anode rod

Replacing your hot water heater's magnesium or aluminum anode rod with one made of a different material, such as zinc or a zinc-aluminum alloy, is one of the easiest solutions. Because these replacement substances are less likely to react with the sulfates in the water, less hydrogen sulfide gas will be produced. You may get assistance from a plumber to repair this, and they can make sure it's done correctly to keep your tank safe and get rid of the smell.

2. Chlorination by shock

It could be essential to shock chlorinate your water heater if bacteria are the source of the odor. In order to kill the germs, a high dose of chlorine must be added to the tank. It is necessary to completely cleanse the system to get rid of any leftover chlorine after allowing the chlorinated water to remain in the tank for a few hours. This procedure ought to successfully get rid of the bacteria and the subsequent creation of hydrogen sulfide.

3. Install a water filtration system.

Installing a sulfur-filter-equipped whole house water filtration system is another protective step. By removing hydrogen sulfide from your water before it reaches your hot water heater, this kind of technology can stop the smell of rotten eggs from arising. For instance, filters with oxidizing or activated carbon properties can be especially useful.

4. Raise the temperature of the water heater.

Increasing the water heater's temperature to 140°F (60°C) can aid in eliminating the odor-causing bacteria. Though there is a chance of burns from the hot water, this should be done carefully. It is advised to briefly maintain the water's high temperature before bringing it down to a safer level. To get rid of any dead germs, you should flush the tank after doing this.

Preventing Future Odors in Your Hot Water

After the problem has been fixed, it's critical to take action to keep it from happening again. Maintaining an odor-free water system may be achieved by routine maintenance and observation of your hot water system.

1. Regularly inspect and replace the anode rod.

Depending on your water quality and consumption, the anode rod should be replaced every three to five years and tested annually. It is possible to stop the anode rod from reacting with sulfates in the water and creating hydrogen sulfide gas by changing it earlier.

2. Install a synthetic anode rod.

You can install a sacrificial anode rod adjacent to the conventional anode rod. Sacrificial anodes are typically constructed of zinc. The purpose of this rod is to corrode first, shielding the tank and reducing the amount of hydrogen sulfide gas produced. In locations where the water supply contains significant levels of sulfate, this solution works very well.

3. Run a water heater frequently.

Every six months, you should flush your water heater to help get rid of any collected sediment or germs that might be causing bad odors. This procedure guarantees that your hot water heater keeps working properly by extending its lifespan and increasing its efficiency.

Conclusion

More than simply an unpleasant discomfort, your hot water smell of rotten eggs indicates a problem with your water heater. Taking quick action is essential, regardless of the cause of the issue—bacterial development, anode rod response, or problems with your water supply. You may keep a healthy, cozy house and bring back the freshness of your hot water by comprehending the causes and putting this article's remedies into practice.

The remedies are similar if you discover that the new hot water heater smells like rotten eggs, and taking care of the problem right away might help avoid more serious issues down the road. Frequent upkeep may extend the life of your system and keep your hot water smelling fresh, such as checking the anode rod and cleaning the tank.