I have had a rotten egg smell that appears to be coming from under my sink for weeks. I even had a plumber come over to check it out but it didn't happen while he was here. It happens when my washer is on the second rinse cycle or the first time I drain the water in the sink after washing dishes in the morning. I dont have a garbage disposal and I have tried anti clogging chemicals. I even tried running water through the air vents on the roof. Nothing has worked thus far. Can anyone help

rmwhite00

Why does the water coming from the new hot water heater smell like rotten eggs? After it runs a while, it gets better

Raphael13

I don't have a nw water heater

afaroo

Hello Raphael,

How old is your water heater, is it gas or electric?

It sounds like you have problem with Anode rod and it can be changed, see the images below, Thanks.

John

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Raphael13

Thanks Afaroo

Its about 8 years old...I didn't know this rod existed. I will check for it and respond asap

Raphael13

I found anode rod but it won't come out. I released the pressure valve and drained the tank.

Am I missing something

afaroo

Raphael,

You can replace the anode, but it's not easy. Most tanks are located somewhere without enough headroom to easily remove the old rod or insert a new one. To begin the process, turn off the electricity (or gas) to the heater, shut its water supply, and open a hot-water faucet to relieve pressure inside the appliance. Next, loosen the anode use an 11/16-in. socket and socket wrench. Bend the old anode into a curve as you withdraw it. Be careful—corroded anodes are quite brittle.

If you cannot bend and remove the anode, you'll have to drain the tank, disconnect it from its plumbing and electrical or gas connections, and tip it sideways.

Next, install a flexible anode. This product is shaped like a string of link sausages rather than a typical solid rod. Its unusual design works in low-clearance areas because you can gently bend the anode into an arc as you slip it into the opening in the top of the heater, Good Luck.

John

Raphael13

I tried removing the rod but it absolutely will not budge. I open the pressure release valve, emptied the tank and it still wouldn't budge. I also tried flushing the tank with bleach and the water smells better but I have particles in the water now.

I starting to feel like this is a hopeless situation.

Raphael13

You have been very helpful afaroo...I will leave you alone now

letmetellu

If you have access to an air wrench it may break the joint loose, they are always very tight.