Rotten Egg Smell in Water — Columbus Emergency Guide
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Rotten Egg Smell From Your Water?
That sulfur smell means hydrogen sulfide in your water. It's unpleasant, potentially harmful at high levels, and very fixable. Here's what's causing it and how to get rid of it for good.
Do this right now
5 immediate steps while you wait for help
- 1
Determine if it's hot water, cold water, or both
Hot water only = likely water heater bacteria or anode rod. Both hot and cold = water supply issue. This tells us where to focus.
- 2
Check if it's only one faucet
One faucet = localized issue, possibly a drain or aerator. All faucets = water supply or water heater problem.
- 3
Raise your water heater temperature to 140°F
Higher temperatures kill sulfur bacteria. Run hot water for 10 minutes after raising the temperature. Note: 140°F can scald — use caution, especially with children.
- 4
Don't ignore a strong smell
A faint sulfur smell is usually a nuisance. A strong, persistent smell — especially from cold water — warrants immediate testing. High H2S levels are corrosive and can cause health effects.
- 5
Call us for same-day testing
We test for hydrogen sulfide, sulfates, and sulfur bacteria on-site. Call (614) 476-8711 for emergency testing.
What's causing it
These are the most common causes in Columbus-area homes. Identifying the right one determines the right fix.
Hydrogen sulfide gas in your water supply
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a naturally occurring gas that dissolves in groundwater. It's the primary cause of rotten egg smell. At low levels it's mainly a nuisance; at higher levels it can cause nausea and is corrosive to plumbing and appliances.
Sulfur bacteria in your water heater
Sulfur-reducing bacteria thrive in warm water heaters, especially when the thermostat is set below 140°F. They convert sulfates to hydrogen sulfide. If the smell is only from hot water, this is the likely cause.
Sulfate-reducing bacteria in a well
Private well owners in Central Ohio sometimes see sulfur bacteria colonize the well casing or pump. This requires shock chlorination of the well and often a whole-house treatment system.
Magnesium anode rod reaction
Water heaters contain a magnesium anode rod that protects the tank from corrosion. In soft or treated water, this rod can react with sulfates to produce hydrogen sulfide. Replacing the rod with an aluminum/zinc rod often eliminates the smell.
High sulfate levels in Columbus water
Some Columbus-area neighborhoods have elevated sulfate levels in the municipal supply. Sulfates themselves are odorless, but sulfate-reducing bacteria convert them to hydrogen sulfide. A whole-house carbon filter removes sulfates and the smell.
The permanent fix
An air injection oxidizing filter (like our QualitAir system) eliminates hydrogen sulfide at the point of entry — removing the smell from every tap, shower, and appliance in your home.
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Frequently asked questions
Don't wait — call us now
Same-day emergency water testing available for Columbus-area homeowners. We'll identify the cause and give you a clear path to fixing it.