Common Causes
- Sulfur-reducing bacteria in your well or aquifer
- Corroding magnesium anode rod in your water heater
- Naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide in coastal plain groundwater
- Decaying organic matter in the water source
The Fix
Air injection oxidizing filtration is the approach most commonly used for hydrogen sulfide in well water. When the odor originates in the water heater, replacing the anode rod or shock-treating the heater is the usual remedy. ClearFlow tests your water to identify the source and recommend an appropriate approach.
Related Guides
Related guides
- Well Water Testing SC & NC
- Well Water Treatment Cost in SC & NC
- Whole House Water Filtration in SC & NC
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drink water that smells like rotten eggs?
At typical well water concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, it's generally not acutely toxic, but it indicates sulfur bacteria are present — which can cause other water quality issues. It's also extremely unpleasant.
Does the smell come from the water supply or my water heater?
Run cold water from a tap. If it smells too, the source is your well or pipes. If only hot water smells, the problem is your water heater's magnesium anode rod reacting with sulfur bacteria.
Will a water filter address rotten egg smell?
Standard carbon filters are generally not designed for hydrogen sulfide. Air injection oxidizing filters and catalytic carbon systems are the technologies typically used. ClearFlow sizes a system based on your test results.
How do I get tested for hydrogen sulfide in my water?
ClearFlow provides free in-home well water testing including sulfur/H₂S panels across SC and NC. Call (843) 742-1196.