Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs in Loxahatchee Groves

A quick way to narrow it down

1. Run a cold tap. Smell it.
2. Run a hot tap. Smell it.
3. If both smell: the gas is likely in the well water.
4. If only hot smells: the water heater is the likely source.
5. If only one sink smells: it may be the drain, not the water.

Hydrogen sulfide in well water

The Town's 2024 planning analysis says most homes in Loxahatchee Groves use domestic wells in the surficial aquifer. Hydrogen sulfide is a gas that can be present in groundwater and gives that rotten-egg odor, often stronger first thing in the morning or after the water sits. It frequently shows up together with iron. Treatment is chosen from the well's numbers and typically uses one of these approaches:

• Aeration, which lets the gas escape before the water is used.
• Oxidation plus filtration, which converts sulfide and iron so a filter media can catch them.
• Carbon polishing for low residual odor after the main stage.

Compare the methods in aeration vs. filtration for sulfur smells.

The water heater cause

Tank water heaters use a sacrificial anode rod, often magnesium. In warm, still water, bacteria can react with the rod and produce hydrogen sulfide, so the hot side smells while the cold does not. Well water with sulfate makes this more likely. A plumber can flush the tank or change the rod type; check the manufacturer's guidance first because rod changes can affect the warranty.

Homes on county water

Properties on Palm Beach County Water Utilities mains receive treated, chloramine-disinfected water. A sulfur smell on hot taps only in one of those homes almost always points to the water heater. A chlorine-like smell during the utility's twice-yearly switch to free chlorine is a different odor and temporary.

Testing before treating

Jorge checks hot and cold taps, iron, pH, hardness and signs of hydrogen sulfide, and looks at the water heater and well equipment. If the water heater is the cause, he will tell you; you may not need a filter. If the well is the cause, the test sets the system size. Also lab-test the well for bacteria yearly, as the Florida Department of Health recommends. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.

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