Cold water is fine, but the hot water smells like rotten eggs. Gross. What's going on?
Why does my hot water smell like rotten eggs?
Concerns & risks
You turn on the hot tap and get a whiff of rotten eggs. Cold water smells fine. It's gross and you're not sure if it's safe.
The smell is unpleasant, and you want to be sure it's not a gas leak.
Causes & evidence
When only the HOT water smells, it's usually a reaction inside the tank involving the anode rod. Background: water heater basics.
What to do
- Check: if both hot and cold smell, the issue is your water supply; contact your utility or test well water.
- Only hot smells? Flush the water heater.
- Ask a plumber about swapping the anode rod for an aluminum/zinc or powered anode.
- If you smell gas near the heater itself (not the water), leave and call your gas company.
Common mistakes: Don't remove or alter the anode rod without understanding the tank's warranty and design. Changes can shorten tank life. If you have a well, have the water tested. If you smell gas (not just egg-smelling water) near a gas appliance, leave and call the gas company. That's different and urgent.
Speed Man tip: Never confuse water smell with a gas smell in the air. Gas in the air = get out, call from outside.
Wrap-up: Rotten-egg smell only in hot water points to the water heater. Flush the tank and consider a different anode rod. Gas smell in the air is an emergency, not a water issue.
⚡ Speed Summary
- Rotten-egg smell only in hot water points to the water heater.
- Flush the tank and consider a different anode rod.
- Gas smell in the air is an emergency, not a water issue.
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