Hot water sulfur smell solutions

[Brian Elfert]

I was away from home for two and a half weeks last summer and I turned my gas water heater off to save energy (and money!). The hot water smelled horrible once I turned it back on and started using hot water again. After a few days I drained the water heater which solved the problem. I have turned off my water heater numerous times while away, but usually not more than eight days.

[Larry Frank]

I had air induction filter serviced today. Last service on it was in 2012 and has run great. It does not use any chemicals. I had my water tested and it was high iron from the well but zero iron after the unit. It also takes out sulfur.

It is made by Aqua Systems and is made to be easily serviceable. They serviced it with no tools as the connection were all easy to undo by hand.

[Bruce Wrenn]

I would start at the source, chlorinate the well. Turn off energy source to WH. Run system till you smell chlorine at faucet, both hot and cold. Let sit for 24 hours, and then flush system.

[Ron Citerone]

Thanks again folks! I take all your responses seriously. I have a metered well that needs to be in sync with the septic pump out as here holding tanks only are required (Long story).

I reworked the plumbing so I can flush the tank and hot water line without it going into the septic or throwing the meter out of sync.

I did that 2 days ago and things are good right now.

If it keeps happening I plan on using your ideas from least expensive to most expensive till I get this figured out. If the well needs to be shocked I will have it done by the well company who drilled it, as I think that is beyond what I would do myself.

Thanks for all your personal responses, Best people on this site for sure.

[Bill Howatt]

Involving the drilling company for further treatment, if required, is a good idea. They have seen it all before and likely are familiar with the water conditions in your area if they are relatively local.