HYDROGEN SULFIDE IN YOUR PRIVATE WELL
Hydrogen sulfide and sulfate-reducing bacteria are two forms of sulfur most commonly found in drinking water supplies. Both forms are nuisances that usually do not pose a health risk at the concentrations found in domestic wells, but can cause major aesthetic problems. Hydrogen sulfide gas, which causes a rotten egg smell in water, occurs naturally in certain ground waters containing decaying organic matter, such as marshes, swamps, wetlands and river beds. It may be found in either deep or shallow wells. Hydrogen sulfide is often present in wells drilled in shale or sandstone, or near coal or peat deposits or oil fields.
Hydrogen sulfide gives water a “rotten egg” smell and taste, and can even cause nausea. It is corrosive to metals such as iron, steel, copper and brass. It can tarnish silverware and discolor copper and brass utensils. It can also cause yellow or black stains on kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Coffee, tea and other beverages may be discolored and the appearance and taste of cooked foods can also be affected. High concentrations of dissolved hydrogen sulfide also can foul the resin bed of an ion exchange water softener.
WATER TESTING FOR HYDROGEN SULFIDE
Hydrogen sulfide can be difficult to test because the gas escapes into the atmosphere so quickly. Onsite testing is the most accurate method for determining concentration, especially if the odor is excessive. The odor is difficult to mistake. Concentrations greater than 5 mg/L are more difficult to treat and could require special testing methods to assure accuracy.
The EPA sets standards for secondary water contaminants based on color, odor, taste, corrosiveness, foaming and staining properties. Hydrogen sulfide is not regulated because any concentration high enough to pose a health hazard will also make the water too unpalatable to drink.
WATER TREATMENT SOLUTIONS
Hydrogen sulfide treatment is with either chlorination, aeration followed by filtration or ozone infusion. A determination can be made by your water treatment professional as to the most appropriate solution for your particular situation. Based on the total water chemistry determined in the water test, the best approach can be pursued.
Ozone Filtration System For Bad Odors
IF ROTTEN EGG SMELL IS ONLY IN THE HOT WATER
Most water heater anode rods contain some sulfate therefore, if the water contains sulfate-reducing bacteria, a rotten egg odor is created in the hot water only. If this occurs, the first course of action is to replace the anode rod with an aluminum-based rod which limits the sulfate and therefore stops the odor. Sulfate-reducing bacteria is treated with continuous chlorination. Removing sulfate mineral is difficult and usually not feasible, so chlorination kills the bacteria instead. The chlorination process involves a chemical feed pump system that injects a chlorine solution into the inlet of a retention tank that must be installed in the house piping. There are other considerations as well in this process which can be discussed with your water treatment professional.
H2O Care is an established Massachusetts based water filtration and testing company formed in 1989, with offices in Stow & Middleton, MA. Articles published by the company in Water Technology Magazines can be seen at http://www.h2ocare.com. Contact us at [email protected] or 800-539-1100.
H2S Removal