Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs? Here’s How to Fix It

Have you ever turned on your tap and been hit with a strong “rotten egg” smell? That unmistakable odor usually comes from hydrogen sulfide gas (H₂S) in your water. While it’s typically harmless to your health, it can leave water tasting unpleasant, stain your sinks and fixtures, and make everyday chores less enjoyable.
At EDS Pumps & Water Treatment, we help homeowners and businesses tackle water issues like this every day, with expert water treatment solutions tailored to each unique situation

What Causes the Rotten Egg Smell?

There are a few common reasons why your water might smell like sulfur:

Sulfur Bacteria – These bacteria thrive in low-oxygen environments like wells, pipes, and even water heaters. As they feed on natural minerals in your water, they produce hydrogen sulfide gas, creating that rotten egg smell.

Water Heaters – Your water heater may be the culprit if the smell is stronger in hot water. The magnesium anode rod inside the heater can react with sulfates in the water, releasing H₂S gas.

Well Water or Mineral-Rich Sources – Water drawn from deep wells or certain soils naturally contains sulfates. When these sulfates interact with magnesium or iron, hydrogen sulfide gas can form.

Signs You Might Have Hydrogen Sulfide in Your Water

• Strong “rotten egg” odor when using hot or cold water
• Black or dark-colored stains in sinks, toilets, or appliances
• A metallic or bitter taste in drinking water
• Reduced effectiveness of soaps or detergents

How Can You Fix It?

The solution depends on the source and concentration of hydrogen sulfide. Common methods include:

•  Water Testing – Before any treatment, it’s important to know exactly what’s in your water. Professional testing identifies H₂S levels and other potential contaminants.
• Water Heater Maintenance – Replacing a magnesium anode rod with an aluminum or zinc one can reduce odor in hot water.
• Shock Chlorination – If sulfur bacteria are present, disinfecting your well and plumbing can temporarily eliminate the odor.
• Filtration Systems – For a long-term solution, filtration systems like water softeners, activated carbon filters, or specialized sulfur filters can remove hydrogen sulfide and improve water quality.

Why Choose EDS Pumps & Water Treatment?

With over 65 years of experience, EDS Pumps & Water Treatment has helped countless homes and businesses solve water problems. Our team of water quality specialists provides:

• Professional water testing and analysis
• Tailored water treatment solutions for your unique water concerns
• Expert installation of filtration and pump systems
• 24/7 emergency service for unexpected issues

We’re dedicated to making sure your water is clean, fresh, and odor-free, so you can enjoy it without worrying about unpleasant smells.

Don’t Ignore Rotten Egg Smell

Even though hydrogen sulfide is usually harmless, it can indicate bacteria or mineral imbalances in your water. Left untreated, it can stain plumbing, appliances, and fixtures and nobody wants that.

If your water smells like rotten eggs, contact EDS Pumps & Water Treatment or call us at 604-534-1115 or visit our store at 23184 Fraser Hwy, Langley, BC. We’ll test your water, identify the cause, and recommend the best water treatment solution so your water tastes and smells great again.