Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs in Jupiter

Hot only or hot and cold?

Town water and the water heater

Jupiter's Town water is membrane-treated and disinfected with chloramine, and the Town's report does not list hydrogen sulfide as a concern in finished water. When a Town-water home smells sulfur at the hot tap, the usual suspect is a magnesium anode rod in the tank reacting with the water, especially in a heater that sits unused, like in a seasonal home. Common fixes include flushing the tank and having a plumber swap the anode for a different type. The Town's report also suggests flushing the water heater and home plumbing at least twice a year if you regularly see discolored water.

Wells in Jupiter Farms and irrigation wells

The Town's water supply plan notes that Jupiter Farms homes use private wells for drinking water. Groundwater in South Florida can carry hydrogen sulfide, and it smells strongest when the water first comes out. Irrigation wells can do the same, which is why some yards smell after the sprinklers run.

Treatment options for well water

• Aeration releases the gas before the water enters the house.
• Oxidation and filtration convert sulfide into particles a filter can catch.
• Carbon can help with light odor but loads up quickly with heavy sulfur.

The right choice depends on the level and on iron, which is often present too. See aeration vs. filtration for sulfur smells.

What gets tested

• Smell on hot and cold, at several taps.
• On wells: iron, pH, hardness and an odor check at the wellhead.
• Total chlorine on Town water, to confirm the disinfectant is present.

If a well's water has never been lab-tested for bacteria, Jorge will suggest that too.

Get it checked

Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974 for a free in-home test. If the fix is a plumber's job, Jorge will tell you.

Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist