Contact a licensed well contractor to do this pre-work. Pre-work (such as scrubbing the well casing, using special treatment chemicals, and agitating the water before disinfection) may be necessary-especially if there are also iron bacteria. Sulfur bacteria can be difficult to remove once established in a well. You can hire a licensed well contractor to do this or refer to the Well Disinfection webpage for instructions. If the Problem is in the Well, Plumbing System, or Water Softenerĭisinfect the well and plumbing system with a strong chlorine solution. The anode is 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter and 30 to 40 inches long. The anode is usually made of magnesium metal, which can supply electrons that aid in the conversion of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide gas. A water heater usually contains a metal rod called an "anode," which is installed to reduce corrosion of the water heater tank. The water heater can produce hydrogen sulfide gas in two ways - creating a warm environment where sulfur bacteria can live, and sustaining a reaction between sulfate in the water and the water heater anode. How Hydrogen Sulfide Gas is Produced in a Water HeaterĪ water heater can provide an ideal environment for the conversion of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide gas. Be sure to lower the thermostat setting and make certain the water temperature is reduced following treatment to prevent injury from scalding hot water and to avoid high energy costs. Consult with the manufacturer or dealer regarding an operable pressure relief valve, and for other recommendations. Flushing to remove the dead bacteria after treatment should control the odor problem.ĬAUTION: Increasing the water heater temperature can be dangerous. Increase the water heater temperature to 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) for several hours.If all bacteria are not destroyed by chlorination, the problem may return within a few weeks. Disinfect and flush the water heater with a chlorine bleach solution.A replacement anode may provide corrosion protection without contributing to the production of hydrogen sulfide gas. You may wish to consult with a water heater dealer to determine if a replacement anode made of a different material, such as aluminum, can be installed. Removal of the anode, however, may significantly decrease the life of the water heater. It can be removed by turning off the water, releasing the pressure from the water heater, and unscrewing the plug. Many water heaters have a magnesium anode, which is attached to a plug located on top of the water heater. Replace or remove the magnesium anode.Unless you are very familiar with water heater operation and maintenance, have a plumber or water system professional to do the work. Determine which faucets have the “rotten egg” odor. How to Find the SourceĪfter you have been away from your home for a few hours, smell the water coming out of the hot and cold water faucets. The first step is to find out what the source of the issue is that will let you know what treatment option is best. To be safe, test your well water for coliform bacteria and nitrate. In rare instances, the gas may be from sewage or other pollution. In most cases, the rotten egg smell does not relate to the sanitary quality of the water. Have your water tested at a laboratory.Corrosion on pipes and metal components of the water distribution system (signs of hydrogen sulfide gas).Black stains on silverware and plumbing fixtures (signs of hydrogen sulfide gas).Bacterial slime may be white, grey, black, or reddish brown if associated with iron bacteria (signs of sulfur bacteria). ![]() Only well professionals should enter a well pit or other enclosed space where hydrogen sulfide gas may be present. Venting prevents the gas from collecting in low-lying spaces (such as well pits and basements) or enclosed spaces (such as well houses). It is important to remove the gas from the water, or vent the gas to the atmosphere. While sulfur bacteria are not harmful, hydrogen sulfide gas in the air can be harmful at high levels. The slime can clog wells, plumbing, and irrigation systems. Sulfur bacteria produce a slime and can help other bacteria grow, such as iron bacteria.
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