BULLETIN 22
SMELLY WATER
CAUSES
The most common cause of “smelly water” is a
Hydrogen sulfide gas is distinctive because of its rotten
The requirements for the bacteria to thrive are: a) an elevated level of sulfur in the water, b) activated hydrogen from cathodic reactions within the tank, c) water with little or no dissolved oxygen, d) and temperatures below 138°F.
Items that can increase the potential for this bacteria are: a) water softeners, b) well water, c) and long periods of no water movement.
Other factors that may contribute to smelly water:
•Chlorides of Magnesium and Calcium leave a bitter taste.
•Chloride of Sodium produces a salty taste.
•Sulfates (50 ppm) gives a medicinal taste.
•Carbon Dioxide in a low pH water gives fizzy water.
•Iron and tannic waters also give a bad taste and odor.
TREATMENT
The simplest treatment available is the
NOTES
Since rusty water is caused by a bacteria presence and is not caused by the water heater, any treatment would not be considered warranty related.
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