What Causes Rusty Hot Water?
If only the hot water is discolored, the problem is almost certainly inside your tank. Here's what's happening and what to do.
Read more →Why Your Hot Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs
Rotten-egg-smelling hot water is unpleasant but usually fixable. Here's what's causing it and how to clear it up.
Few plumbing problems are as off-putting as turning on the hot tap and getting a whiff of rotten eggs. The good news: it's almost always harmless to your health and usually straightforward to fix.
What causes the smell
The odor is hydrogen sulfide gas. It forms when sulfur in the water reacts with the magnesium anode rod inside your tank, often helped along by certain bacteria. The reaction happens in the hot water, which is why only the hot side smells.
How to confirm it's the heater
- Smell the cold water—if only the hot stinks, it's the water heater
- If both smell, the issue is your water source or well, not the tank
- A water softener can sometimes intensify the reaction
The usual fix
Swapping the standard magnesium anode rod for an aluminum/zinc rod usually stops the reaction and clears the smell, while still protecting the tank. Flushing and sanitizing the tank often helps too. Both are routine for our techs during a service visit.
Don't just remove the anode rod to stop the smell—that leaves your tank unprotected and rusting. Replace it with the right type instead.
Is it dangerous?
The trace hydrogen sulfide that causes the smell isn't a health hazard at these levels, but it's unpleasant and signals a reaction worth addressing. It can also point to a depleted or reactive anode rod that needs attention anyway.
We'll clear it up
A smelly-water fix is quick and affordable. We'll diagnose whether it's the anode rod, bacteria, or your supply, and solve it. Call 973-834-8833.
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rotten-egg-smelling hot water dangerous?
At typical household levels the hydrogen sulfide causing the smell isn't a health hazard, but it's unpleasant and signals a reaction in the tank worth fixing.
How do I get rid of the rotten egg smell?
Usually by replacing the magnesium anode rod with an aluminum/zinc rod and flushing/sanitizing the tank. A technician can do this in one visit.
Need a hand from a licensed NJ water heater pro? Hot Water NJ installs, repairs, and replaces every type of water heater across Northern New Jersey—usually same day. Call 973-834-8833 or request a free estimate below.