Name the smell first
| Smell | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Rotten eggs, hot taps only | Water heater anode reaction |
| Rotten eggs, hot and cold, on a well | Hydrogen sulfide in the groundwater |
| Rotten eggs outdoors at sprinklers | Private irrigation well |
| Pool or bleach-like | Disinfectant; stronger during free-chlorine maintenance |
| Sewer-like at one sink | The drain or P-trap |
Chlorine maintenance is not sulfur
Boynton Beach Utilities switches from chloramine to free chlorine for about three weeks, typically once or twice a year, and flushes hydrants. The city notes some people notice a change in taste or smell during that time. That is a chemical smell, not rotten eggs. The city suggests keeping an open container of drinking water in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the chlorine dissipate.
The water heater explanation
Tank heaters use a sacrificial anode rod, often magnesium, to protect the tank. In warm water that sits, a reaction at the rod can form hydrogen sulfide. The Florida Department of Health's well-water fact sheet points to the heater whenever the smell is only on the hot side. A licensed plumber can flush the tank or change the rod type; check the manufacturer's guidance first. A whole-home filter installed before the heater will not stop gas that forms inside it.
Wells and sprinklers
City water is treated at the East and West plants before delivery. Private irrigation wells deliver groundwater as it is, and shallow groundwater can carry hydrogen sulfide and iron. Treatment for a drinking well is chosen from the test, often aeration or oxidation plus filtration. Compare aeration vs. filtration for sulfur smells and see well water in Boynton Beach.
Is it harmful?
The Florida Department of Health says sulfur bacteria are not harmful and the rotten-egg smell usually does not relate to how clean well water is, but well owners should still test regularly for total coliform and E. coli. On city water, a heater smell is a comfort and plumbing issue.
What Jorge checks
Hot and cold taps, disinfectant type and level, pH and iron, plus the heater's age and use. Before the visit, try running the hot water for several minutes and note whether the smell fades, and whether it is worse after time away. If the heater is the cause, he tells you and you may not need any equipment. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.boynton-beach.org/742/Chlorine-Maintenance-FAQ
https://www.boynton-beach.org/DocumentCenter/View/4063/2025-Water-Quality-Report-for-the-City-of-Boynton-Beach-9
https://www.floridahealth.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/well-water-facts-odor-staining.pdf
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist