![]() ![]() This problem can be eliminated or reduced by replacing the magnesium rod with one made of aluminum.Ĭan I Have My Water Tested by a Laboratory for Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfate? The magnesium corrosion control rod (anode rod) inside the water heater can react with sulfate to form hydrogen sulfide. If you detect the smell of hydrogen sulfide from only the hot water faucet, your water heater may be causing the problem. When the water is pumped to the surface, the hydrogen sulfide gas is free to escape and this is why it is so easy to smell (from both hot and cold faucets). When water is underground this gas is trapped within the water. When plant or animal tissue is decomposed underground where oxygen is not available, sulfur-containing compounds and minerals can be changed into hydrogen sulfide. A high level of sulfate in water (in excess of 250 parts per million) requires treatment of drinking water before use. High levels of sulfate can act as a laxative to some people, cause dehydration, and be especially detrimental to the health of infants. Sulfate is another form of sulfur that does not produce gas and is odorless. Sulfate comes from naturally occurring minerals in soils, rocks, and sediments. It can also react with the resin bed of a water softener, and if sulfur-loving bacteria enter the treatment system a black slime will be produced. Hydrogen sulfide will react with the silver in true silverware creating a coal-black tarnish. Wells constructed with steel casing and houses plumbed with copper pipes will have a shortened lifetime. It will quickly corrode even stainless steel. Hydrogen sulfide is extremely corrosive to metals. At high concentrations in the air hydrogen sulfide is toxic, but it is usually just at nuisance levels in well water and does not cause health problems. It is produced from decomposing plant and animal tissue. Hydrogen sulfide is a gas that has the unmistakable odor of rotten eggs. Atiles, The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service What are Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfate? Your Household Water Quality: Sulfide and Sulfateīy Paul F.
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