Why does my hot water smell like eggs?

Nothing is worse than showering or cooking with water that smells like rotten eggs. If your water smells like rotten eggs, it is likely that there is a presence of hydrogen sulfide gas in your water system. Hydrogen sulfide gas is a naturally occurring gas that can be produced by certain bacteria that thrive in oxygen-deficient environments.  Sometimes to solve the smell a whole house treatment system is required.  If only your hot water smells, there might be an easy and inexpensive fix to this problem.  The culprit of the stinking water might be a device called an anode rod.

What is an anode rod?

An anode rod, also known as a sacrificial anode, is a metal rod typically made of magnesium, aluminum, or zinc that is inserted into a water heater tank. Its purpose is to protect the metal tank from corrosion and rust by attracting corrosive elements and taking on the corrosion itself, instead of the tank. The anode rod works through a process called electrolysis, where the anode becomes negatively charged and attracts positively charged ions, such as sulfate ions, which can cause corrosion.  In time, it will need to be replaced to continue protecting the tank.

Why does an Anode Rod make hot water smell?

An anode rod in a hot water heater can sometimes cause the water to smell bad because it helps prevent corrosion of the tank itself. The anode rod attracts corrosion-causing minerals in the water, which can lead to the buildup of bacteria. This bacteria can produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which has a distinctive "rotten egg" smell. In some cases, the anode rod can also become clogged with minerals and other debris, which can further contribute to the problem. 

 How do I fix it?

The solution to your rotten egg odor in your hot water is a device called a powered anode rod. A powered anode rod is an electronic device that replaces the traditional sacrificial anode rod in a water heater. Rather than relying on a physical anode rod to attract and corrode corrosive elements, a powered anode rod uses electrical current to create a protective field around the tank. A powered anode rod typically consists of a control unit and a titanium rod that is powered by the control unit. The control unit sends a low-voltage electrical current through the titanium rod, which creates a field around the tank that attracts corrosive elements and neutralizes them before they can cause corrosion. Powered anode rods are often used in areas with hard water or high sulfur content, where traditional sacrificial anode rods may corrode quickly and need to be replaced frequently. They are also preferred in situations where space is limited or accessibility is difficult, as they can be installed in a smaller space than a traditional anode rod. While powered anode rods are more expensive than traditional anode rods, they are typically more efficient and longer-lasting, potentially saving money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent anode rod replacements and extending the lifespan of the water heater tank.   

Vern Dale Water Experts can remove your existing anode rod, sanitize your water heater and install a powered anode rod that will eliminate the odor and extend the life of your hot water heater.  Give us a call today or click here to eliminate the stink!