Have you ever taken a drink of water from your sink and been met with an overwhelming stench of rotten eggs? You’re not alone. The foul odor comes from hydrogen sulfide, which you can find in groundwater and some city water supplies.
Why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Let’s explore the reasons your water smells like rotten eggs.
The Source of Hydrogen Sulfide
Hydrogen sulfide occurs naturally when sulfur-reducing bacteria break down organic matter or minerals in a water supply. These bacteria feed on decaying materials containing sulfur, such as plants, animals, and minerals like gypsum or anhydrite. The bacteria produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which dissolves into the water to give it a rotten egg-like smell.
Where Does It Come From?
You can find hydrogen sulfide in well water sources near areas with high levels of vegetative decay or mining waste runoff. It may also be present in municipal water supplies if faulty pipes or plumbing fixtures allow sulfur-reducing bacteria to enter the system. In many cases, you can trace the source of the problem back to faulty plumbing or an outdated infrastructure system.
How Can I Get Rid of It?
A whole-house water treatment system may be the solution if you’re dealing with a smelly water supply. These systems reduce or remove hydrogen sulfide from your water by combining filtration and chemical treatments, such as chlorination and aeration. A Kinetico water system can also reduce hydrogen sulfide levels and improve the smell of your water.
If all else fails, a residential plumbing contractor can help you identify the source of the problem and come up with a solution to get rid of it for good.
Water smelling like rotten eggs is a common issue many homeowners across the country face. Fortunately, you can improve its smell and taste. By understanding where hydrogen sulfide comes from and how it gets into our homes’ water systems, we can take proactive measures to ensure our water remains safe and odorless for years to come!
Fletcher’s Plumbing & Contracting has experienced, professional plumbing contractors offering solutions for homes and businesses in Northern California. Our team of experts can help you identify the source of your smelly water and provide long-lasting solutions to keep it smelling fresh and clean. Contact us today to learn more!