Depending upon its source, water may contain a variety of naturally occurring minerals and bacteria. Municipal water systems remove these contaminants though various methods, including the use of chlorine and filtration equipment. If you use an unfiltered well, there is a chance that the water may have a foul odor.
Why Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs
Well water may contain high levels of sulfur and sulfur-reducing bacteria. As the bacteria dissolve the sulfur, it creates hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells like rotten eggs. The gas also occurs when water contains decaying organic matter or when it is filtered through certain types of rocks, such as pyrite. The presence of iron bacteria creates the ideal conditions for sulfur bacteria and the production of hydrogen sulfide. The gas can also make the water taste bad. The foul odor and taste are common issues with well water. The warm temperatures inside your water heater can accelerate the development of the gas. When sulfate contacts the anode rods inside a water heater, it is transformed into hydrogen sulfide, which can damage pipes, pumps and other metal components of your plumbing system.
Removing the Odor
Because hydrogen sulfide occurs naturally in ground water, it is impractical to try to purify your well. The best course of action is to filter the water at the point where it enters your home before it reaches your water heater or other plumbing fixtures. The filtration system required to address the situation will depend upon the type and level of contaminants found in the water.
If the concentration of hydrogen sulfide is low, an activated carbon filtration system may be sufficient to purify your water. The carbon filter traps the gas along with other contaminants. You replace the filter when it becomes saturated. An oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach, can be used to augment a carbon filtration system to purify water containing higher concentrations of contaminants. Another option for higher level of contaminants is an oxidizing filter that uses sand coated with manganese oxide, which reacts with and neutralizes the hydrogen sulfide. A home aeration filter system is designed to oxidize and vent the hydrogen sulfide gas.
Contact a Professional Water Treatment Company
Our experienced technicians can identify the source of the offensive odor and determine the level of any environmental contaminants. The results of these tests will enable our team to determine the best course of action to help you enjoy the best-tasting, odor-free water possible. Contact our officetoday for an inspection. We proudly provide service all throughout our service area in Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean counties.
