Why does my water smell like rotten eggs? No one wants their morning shower to remind them of a breakfast gone wrong, right? 

As Kansas City’s certified 24-hour plumber, we at Pierpoint Plumbing, Sewer, & Water Line Repair have identified and addressed countless cases just like yours. It’s actually more common than you think.

Keep reading as we discuss the crucial details and help restore your water quality.

Causes of a Rotten Egg Smell in Water in Kansas City

When unsettling odors emanate from your tap water, hydrogen sulfide gas is the main offender. This naturally occurring compound can stem from various sources, including:

Bacteria

Sulfur bacteria thrive in low-oxygen environments and can wreak havoc in your water supply. They produce a slime that can clog plumbing systems and help other microorganisms thrive. 

When these bacteria consume organic matter in your water, they emit hydrogen sulfide as a by-product. This is not just an aesthetic concern; it can also hint at the presence of harmful contaminants making their way into your tap water.

Chemical Reactions

When metal components in plumbing fixtures interact with acidic or mineral-rich water, they release hydrogen sulfide gas. Water heaters, in particular, are a common reason for water smelling like rotten eggs—especially when they don’t receive proper upkeep. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the unit can create an environment where these reactions thrive. 

The anode rod, which acts as a sacrificial element to protect the inner tank, also plays a part. Magnesium rods, in particular, can interact with the sulfates in the water and accelerate the production of smelly gas. 

A Normal Quality of Your Kansas City Water Supply

Did you recently move into your Kansas City property and notice the tap smells a bit off? Before you panic, it’s worth noting that various regions have different water supplies, and each one has its own unique characteristics. 

You might also feel surprised to learn that over 316 chemicals are present in drinking water across the US. These typically don’t pose a health risk in the quantities found, but they can certainly affect the smell and taste of your water. 

Pinpointing the Source in Your Kansas City Property

Now you know the answer to “Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?” the next step is to figure out exactly where it’s coming from. Use these steps as your guide to identify the issue and take action:

Turn On Your Hot and Cold Water

Turn on your hot and cold faucets separately and give them a good sniff. This simple test can clue you in on whether the issue lies with your water heater or your main water supply.

If you own an older water heater or it has not received tune-ups in a long time, you may have found your culprit. Flushing it or replacing its corroded anode rod can often solve the issue.

Test Your Water Softener

When it’s your cold water that smells odd, check your water softener next if you have one. Test the taps that connect to the appliance and compare them with those that bypass the system. 

You can also inspect the water softener unit itself. Use your owner’s manual to guide you through a maintenance check or cleaning operation. It’s not unusual for these fixtures to harbor bacteria or sediment contributing to the unpleasant smell.

Let the Water Run

Consider letting the water run for several minutes in various parts of your home. When the smell dissipates or completely disappears, you may have bacteria present in your distribution system or the water supply itself.

If you feel concerned about contaminants in your water, you can easily purchase test kits online. These products will show you the levels of hydrogen sulfide, sulfate, sulfur bacteria, and iron bacteria. 

You can also outfit your plumbing with a chlorinator-activated carbon filter. It can significantly reduce those unpleasant odors by neutralizing the sulfides in your water.

Improving Your Water Quality in Kansas City, MO

Why does my water smell like rotten eggs? Experiencing water smelling like sulfur can feel frustrating, especially when you can’t identify the culprit. You don’t have to tackle this mystery alone. 

At Pierpoint Plumbing, we have served the Kansas City community for many years and know its water infrastructure like the back of our hand. Our friendly crew will inspect your plumbing and recommend tailor-fit solutions.

Call 816-208-9437 today or read more of our blog and learn when to call a plumber.