Why Does My Water Smell Bad?

Have you experienced a bad smell from your water? This can be unpleasant and may deter you from using your water. The most common causes of smelly water are sulfur, bacteria, or even your plumbing. Fear not, we are here to help. Let’s talk about what might be causing these smells in your home

Sulfur, the Rotten Egg Smell-

• This smell comes from Hydrogen Sulfide. This is a gas that is produced by sulfur bacteria. It may also be occurring naturally from groundwater. This is the most common reason for the rotten egg smell. 
• Sulfur Bacteria. This smell comes from decaying organic matter. It can accumulate in the water heater, plumbing, or wells. 
• Hot Water Heater. The anode rod in your water heater may degrade. This may cause odors.

Bacterial Growth-

• Hot water heater. When lower temperatures in the water heater exist, bacterial growth is encouraged to grow. This may cause odors. You may experience this if you were away from home for a while, such as on vacation, when the system is not in use.
• Drains. You may have bacteria from soap, food, or other items that build up in drains. This can cause a sewage-like smell. You may experience this smell when water is running.

Other Causes That May Bring Smells To Your Water.

Well Water-

• Well water, in general, can cause issues. There may be contaminants like iron, manganese, or even sewage.

Organic Matter-

• Organic matter, plants, and leaves may get into your water supply. As they decay, there will be smells.

Chlorine-

• Local municipalities may use chlorine in the water supply for disinfection. While chlorine, if used in moderation, is safe, you may get a bleach-like smell associated with it. 

When you experience smells in your water system, calling upon a professional is your best option. Tri-Florida Water Treatment has the experience to tackle any water issue that you may be experiencing.

Some troubleshooting techniques may help resolve the issue or at least pinpoint it. If these don’t work, you can relay this to our technicians for their help.

• Flush plumbing. Run both hot and cold lines for a few moments. This may clear any odor.
• Consider a Water Softener. If the smell that you are experiencing is a chlorine smell, try a water softener. This may correct the odor.
• Clean Drains. Use a solution of one-quarter cup of baking soda followed by one-quarter cup of vinegar. Let this sit for ten minutes, then flush with hot water. 
• Check your hot and cold water.  Fill two glasses of water, one with hot water, the other with cold. If the smell is coming from the hot water, the problem is most likely from the water heater. 

We have over 30 years of experience in the business. Here at Tri-Florida Water Treatment, Inc., we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade. We will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!