Smelly water from the water heater

[Diadem]

I am looking for help from some of the plumbers that may frequent this
board.

For several months I have been getting a strong hydrogen sulfide smell
from my hot water. I have drained the water heater several times. It
gets better but then comes back quickly. I know it's not bad city
water because the cold side is fine. When I drain, black gunk comes out
for a few seconds and then clears. I have even drained it completely.

I am worried about the health concerns.

Has anyone heard of this? What is the cause? How do I cure it. Any help
would be appreciated beyond your imagination.

Thanks

 

[Tom The Great]

I am looking for help from some of the plumbers that may frequent this
board.

For several months I have been getting a strong hydrogen sulfide smell
from my hot water. I have drained the water heater several times. It
gets better but then comes back quickly. I know it's not bad city
water because the cold side is fine. When I drain, black gunk comes out
for a few seconds and then clears. I have even drained it completely.

I am worried about the health concerns.

Has anyone heard of this? What is the cause? How do I cure it. Any help
would be appreciated beyond your imagination.

Thanks

IMHO, have your anode checked.

later,

tom @ www.Consolidated-Loans.info

 

[Diadem]

Thanks for the reply.

Your short answer intially dumbfounded me, but some additional research

 

[Ned]

I would seriously consider buying a new water heater. A different
brand!
It will be more efficient and save you on fuel costs and fix your
problem..

 

[JimmyDahGeek]

For several months I have been getting a strong hydrogen sulfide smell
from my hot water. >
Has anyone heard of this? What is the cause? How do I cure it. Any help
would be appreciated beyond your imagination.

Thanks

Sounds like the anode rod needs to be replaced. look at
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/knowhow/solutions/article/0,16417,460788,00.html
for more information

Or search the web for anode rod, or water heater rod.


Good Luck