Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs?

Few things are more off-putting than running your faucet and being greeted by the smell of rotten eggs. While this issue is common, especially in Florida where many homes rely on well water, it can make daily activities like drinking water, cooking, and bathing unpleasant.

What Causes the Rotten Egg Smell?

The smell comes from hydrogen sulfide gas dissolved in your water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), hydrogen sulfide occurs naturally in groundwater when sulfur-reducing bacteria break down sulfur compounds in the soil and rocks. This is particularly common in Central Florida due to the region's geology, which contains gypsum deposits and sulfur-rich limestone.

Why Does My Water Only Smell Sometimes?

You might notice the smell is strongest in the morning or after your water has been sitting for a while. This happens because hydrogen sulfide escapes from the water when it sits still or is heated. The University of Florida IFAS Extension notes that sulfur bacteria activity increases with warmer temperatures, which is why the smell often intensifies during summer months.

Is It Dangerous?

According to the EPA, low levels of hydrogen sulfide (less than 1 mg/L) are primarily a cosmetic and aesthetic problem. At these levels, it won't cause health issues. However, it makes water unpleasant to drink and can cause corrosion to metal plumbing over time. Higher concentrations can affect taste and cause yellow or black staining on fixtures.

How to Eliminate the Smell

The most effective solution for persistent sulfur odors is a specialized filtration system. There are several treatment options:

• Activated Carbon Filters: Effective for low to moderate hydrogen sulfide levels, these filters adsorb the gas and improve water taste.
• Oxidizing Filters: For higher levels, these systems use manganese greensand or Birm to oxidize hydrogen sulfide and convert it to insoluble sulfur that gets filtered out.
• Chlorination Systems: Continuous chlorination can treat sulfur bacteria but requires careful maintenance and monitoring.