Noticing a foul sulfur or rotten egg smell when you turn on the tap? This common plumbing issue isn’t just unpleasant—it can signal underlying problems in your water supply or pipes.
As Pasadena plumbing specialists, Pershing Plumbing has tackled sulfur odors in thousands of homes. In this guide, we’ll explain why your water stinks, when to worry, and how our team resolves it for good.
Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs? (Top 5 Causes)
Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) gas causes the sulfur odor. Here’s where it’s coming from, according to Pershing Plumbing’s diagnostics:
- Water Heater Issues
- Anode rods (sacrificial rods) in tanks can react with minerals, producing hydrogen sulfide.
- Pershing Plumbing Tip: Flushing your heater annually prevents bacterial growth and corrosion.
- Well Water Contamination
- Common in Pasadena’s rural/well-dependent areas, sulfur bacteria thrive in oxygen-poor environments.
- Signs: Smell strongest in hot water or after long pipe stagnation.
- Hot Water Pipe Biofilm
- Bacteria colonies in pipes release gas, especially if water sits unused for hours.
- Municipal Water Supply Reactions
- Chlorine treatments can react with organic matter, producing temporary sulfur odors.
- Sewer Gas Intrusion
- P-Trap evaporation or cracked sewer lines allow sewage gases to seep into drains.
A mild smell at one faucet may be isolated. If all taps smell, contact Pershing Plumbing for emergency testing.
Health Risks: Is Sulfur-Smelling Water Dangerous?
Low levels of hydrogen sulfide aren’t toxic, but they can:
- Corrode Plumbing: H₂S eats away at metal pipes, causing leaks.
- Stain Fixtures: Leaves black marks on silverware or rust-colored stains on sinks.
- Affect Taste: Makes coffee, tea, and food taste metallic or bitter.
DIY Fixes (and When to Call Pershing Plumbing)
Try these steps for mild odors before seeking professional help:
- Flush the Water Heater
- Drain the tank to remove sediment and bacteria. Replace the anode rod with an aluminum/zinc version if you have soft water.
- Disinfect Pipes
- Pour 1/2 cup bleach into drains, let sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Run Water Regularly
- Prevent stagnation by turning on unused faucets weekly.
When to Call the Pros:
- Odor persists after DIY efforts.
- Smell is strongest in cold water (indicates groundwater contamination).
- You suspect gas line interference (rare but dangerous).
Pershing Plumbing’s Proven Solutions for Sulfur Smell in Pasadena Homes
Our licensed Pasadena Plumbing team uses advanced methods to eliminate odors at the source:
- Water Testing & Diagnosis
- Lab tests pinpoint H₂S levels and distinguish between bacterial vs. chemical causes.
- Water Heater Maintenance
- Replace corroded anode rods and flush tanks to restore clean water.
- Aeration or Oxidation Systems
- Install air injection systems or ozone generators to neutralize H₂S gas.
- Activated Carbon Filtration
- Whole-house filters absorb sulfur particles and improve taste.
- Shock Chlorination for Wells
- Disinfect well systems to kill sulfur bacteria and prevent regrowth.
Our Pasadena Plumbing Expert Pro Tip: Pasadena’s mineral-rich groundwater often needs tailored filtration—avoid one-size-fits-all solutions.
Preventing Sulfur Odors: Expert Tips
- Annual Water Heater Service
- Schedule professional flushing and anode rod inspections.
- Install a Water Softener
- Reduces magnesium and iron that feed sulfur bacteria.
- Replace Old Pipes
- Swap out corroded galvanized pipes with copper or PEX to limit bacterial buildup.
- Maintain Well Systems
- Seal wellheads and test water quality biannually.
- Fix Leaks Promptly
- Standing water in pipes accelerates bacterial growth.
Our Pasadena Plumbing Expert Pro Tip: Electric tankless water heaters reduce sulfur bacteria risks since they don’t store water.
Why Choose Pershing Plumbing for Sulfur Odor Issues?
As Pasadena’s go-to experts for water quality problems, we offer:
- Free Water Testing: Confirm the cause of odors with lab-backed results.
- Same-Day Service: Don’t wait weeks—we prioritize urgent water safety issues.
- Custom Solutions: From small filters to whole-home systems, we match your budget and needs.
- Lifetime Workmanship Guarantee: Peace of mind with every repair.
FAQs About Sulfur Smells in Water
Q: Can a water softener remove the rotten egg smell?
A: Only if the odor is caused by hydrogen sulfide in low concentrations. Severe cases may require oxidation filters.
Q: Is hydrogen sulfide in city water?
A: Rarely—most municipal systems treat H₂S. If you’re on city water, check your water heater first.
Q: How much does sulfur smell repair cost?
A: $200–$1,500+, depending on the fix (e.g., filter installation vs. pipe replacement). Pershing Plumbing provides upfront quotes.