Pinpoint it
| What you notice | Most likely | First step |
|---|---|---|
| Hot water only | Water heater | Flush, inspect anode rod |
| One sink, even with water off | Drain | Smell a filled glass away from the sink |
| Hot and cold, everywhere | Building plumbing or supply | Call Public Works, then test |
| Outdoors near drains | Sewer or storm drains | Report to Public Works |
The anode rod explanation
Tank water heaters contain a sacrificial anode rod that protects the tank from corrosion. In some water, and especially when hot water sits for weeks, that rod can contribute to a sulfur smell. A licensed plumber can flush the tank, inspect the rod and, if appropriate, replace it with a different type recommended by the manufacturer. Temperature changes should be a plumber's call.
A heater that is many years old, or one that was installed with a magnesium anode in a home that sits empty often, is a common combination behind recurring smells. Your plumber can tell you which rod is installed.
Part-time residents
Bal Harbour has many owners who are here only part of the year. Hot water left sitting while a unit is closed is the most common trigger. On return, run each hot tap for several minutes before showering. If the smell keeps returning after every trip, ask a plumber about the anode and about a vacation setting for your heater. Flush an under-sink RO too.
Towers with central hot water
Some buildings heat water centrally. If neighbors in your stack notice the same smell on hot water, tell management; the building system is the place to look. If it is only your unit, your own heater or fixtures come first.
Not a well problem here
In parts of South Florida with private wells, hydrogen sulfide in groundwater causes sulfur odors and needs aeration or specialized filtration. Bal Harbour homes and landscapes use Village water, with irrigation on its own meter behind a certified backflow preventer, so that is not the usual cause here. If you own a well property elsewhere, see aeration vs. filtration for sulfur.
Odors near outdoor drains are a different matter: the Village maintains its sewer and stormwater systems, and residents can report suspected problems to Public Works at 305.993.7391, or 305.993.7360 after hours.
Test it
Jorge compares hot and cold water at your faucet, checks the chlorine residual and helps you decide between heater, building and supply. The test is free. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://balharbourfl.gov/departments/public-works-beautification/water/
https://balharbourfl.gov/departments/public-works-beautification/frequently-asked-questions/
https://balharbourfl.gov/departments/public-works-beautification/sewer/
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist