Rotten Egg Smell in Your Well Water: Causes and Fixes
A sulfur smell is one of the most common complaints from Florida well owners. The good news: it's very treatable.
- Well pump repair & replacement
- New wells, irrigation wells & water treatment
- Free, no-obligation quotes
What causes it
The smell usually comes from hydrogen sulfide gas, which occurs naturally in some Florida groundwater. It can also come from sulfate-reducing bacteria in the well or plumbing, or from a water heater's anode rod reacting with the water.
Narrow down the source
- Hot water only? The water heater is the likely culprit; ask about replacing the anode rod.
- Hot and cold, strongest when water first runs? Often hydrogen sulfide in the groundwater or bacteria in the well.
- Only from one faucet? Could be the drain, not the water.
Treatment options
Depending on the cause and strength, options include aeration systems, oxidizing filters, chlorination, or shock-chlorinating the well to address bacteria. The Florida Department of Health recommends testing private wells for bacteria and nitrate at least once a year, and testing is the best first step before buying equipment.
No water, low pressure, or need a new well?
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