Based on expert recommendations, if your water smells like rotten eggs or sulfur, it is recommended you don't drink it.
Smelly water can be unpleasant and potentially indicate underlying issues. While some smells might be harmless aesthetic problems, certain odors, particularly a smell reminiscent of rotten eggs or sulfur, raise concerns regarding safety and quality.
According to the reference provided, water that smells like rotten eggs or sulfur is not only too pungent to enjoy, but it's recommended you don't drink it. This recommendation is crucial for protecting your health.
Why Does Water Smell Like Sulfur?
The smell of sulfur in water, often described as a rotten egg odor, is commonly caused by:
- Sulfur bacteria: These naturally occurring bacteria live in environments with little or no oxygen, such as deep wells, plumbing systems, or water heaters. They chemically change sulfates in the water into hydrogen sulfide gas.
- Hydrogen sulfide: This gas is responsible for the distinct rotten egg smell. While low levels might not be harmful, higher concentrations can cause health issues and corrosive effects on plumbing.
| Water Smell | Potential Cause (from reference) | Safety Recommendation (from reference) |
|---|---|---|
| Rotten Eggs / Sulfur | Sulfur bacteria, Hydrogen sulfide | Recommended you don't drink it |
Recognizing the type of smell can provide initial clues about the source and potential risks. The presence of the rotten egg/sulfur smell, as highlighted by the reference, warrants caution and avoiding consumption until the source is identified and resolved.
