Easily Eliminate Water Heater Odors with This Inexpensive Setup

Earlier this week we explained how to determine the source of odors in city water; as you may have read (if you haven't, do so here), the problem often can be traced back to one's water heater, which often contains an anode rod that can encourage iron and sulfur bacteria growth.

These bacteria create hydrogen sulfide gas as a waste byproduct which gives the affected water its odorous smell.

Fortunately, if the problem is in your water heater, treating it is as easy as installing a small, inexpensive pre-filter.

The Water Heater Odor Killer Filter is a chemically-resistant pre-filter designed to withstand high temperatures and chemical concentrations.  As such, it can be a very effective system for purging bacteria and odors from a contaminated water heater.

Simply install the filter on the cold line to the water heater, unscrew the bottom sump, and add 1 pint of 3% hydrogen peroxide (available at any drug store).  Then, turn your water back on and run hot water for several minutes before allowing your water heater to sit for about 3 – 4 hours.

This method will eradicate odors by attacking them at the source: with your water disinfected of bacteria, you'll notice the foul smell has gone, along with the sludgy biofilm you may have noticed in your plumbing and/or fixtures.

What's more, peroxide will break down into oxygen and water after some time, so you won't have to filter your water further or endure new foul smells or tastes as you might with chlorine bleach.

Finally, this filter requires very little effort in the way of installation or maintenance: its 3/4″ strainer screen is made to fit conveniently on to your water heater's inlet, and its included 1/2″ manual flush ball valve makes flushing the filter as simple as turning a knob.

If you are experiencing odors in your city water, and have already confirmed that your water heater is the source of the odor, we highly recommend this Rusco pre-filter and peroxide treatment method.

If you try it and notice that the odor has returned in a few days or weeks, your last recourse should be to replace your water heater's anode rod with an aluminum rod.

This step is not always necessary, but if you do replace your anode rod, and keep your pre-filter in place and operational, you should be completely clear of odor and bacteria from your water heater.

For more information about odors and other water problems, visit our water problems page.  To browse our selection of home water treatment systems, visit our online store.

Remember that you can also reach us with any questions or concerns you may have at [email protected], on Facebook, or through our online contact form — we're here to help!  Thanks for reading!