Hello,

(Sorry about the huge post, I was trying to provide all details)

I have a strange problem with water odor in two faucets of a brand new home - the master bath vanity and the kitchen sink. After reading many other posts I did all testing by dispensing the water into a glass to make sure the odor is from the water itself, and not from the drains or overflows.

Observations:
1. I would describe the odor as a sewer or rotten egg smell. My wife says it smells like a dead body!
2. Odor is most obvious after no water is run for a while. I do tests first thing in the morning, and odor from glass filled with water is overwhelming. It can make the entire bathroom smell. If less time has elapsed the odor is less severe.
3. Odor comes from cold water only. I can even run the hot water first with no odor, then run the cold water and the odor is still present.
5. After cold water is run for about 5 seconds, oder is gone.
6. Vanity in bathroom has dual sinks and odor is same in both sinks.
7. I have tested cold water in two other bathrooms and have not observed the odor - but have not tested those as extensively.

Professional advice:
1. I called the plumbing contractor who installed the plumbing. They said there is no way the plumbing could cause the odor, and it must be a supply issue.
2. I had the local water company come out. The rep said that since we are in a new subdivision (only 5 houses occupied), there is not enough water being pulled through the system which allows the water to sit in the main lines too long. Then chemicals break down organics in the water and cause odors. They said they would flush the lines regularly but this has not helped the problem. Their explanation makes sense, but...

If the problem is in the water supply I don't think it would be specific to the cold water (unless the hot water is treated or filtered in the tankless system). I also don't think the odor would go away after 5 seconds. This is not enough to purge the water in the house, much less all the water from the main lines. Finally, I would expect the problem to be the same at all faucets if it were a supply issue.

Any help or advice would be GREATLY appreciated! We have a new baby coming in a few days and I'm concerned this may be a safety issue.

Thanks!
Larry.

If the odor lasts for only 5 seconds after cold water is turned ON, it tells me that the odor is caused by something in very close proximity of the dispenser (spout).

I would replace the water flex line first, than cold water cartridge and also angle stop.

See if the smells disappears

Back to you

Milo

I know this is an old post. But it could be that you need to install a premium anode rod into your water heater. Zinc, tin, and aluminum.

you need to install a premium anode rod into your water heater. Zinc, tin, and aluminum

Not logical. The problem exist in the cold water only. No odor in the hot side.

I agree with Harold,

Thanks,
John

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