A strange smell in your water is never pleasant, but the good news is that most odor issues come from just a few familiar places. The key is figuring out where the smell is coming from so you know what actually needs attention.

Here’s a simple, homeowner‑friendly way to narrow it down — the same logic behind our I Have Smell in My Water flow chart.

1. Smell in Both Hot and Cold Water Everywhere
If the odor shows up no matter which tap you use, the issue usually isn’t your water heater. Instead, it often points to something in the well, the plumbing, or a treatment system that needs maintenance.
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Common culprits:

• True sulfur smell from the well
• Specific sections of plumbing that need to be replaced
• A treatment system that needs service

This is the “whole‑house” category — and it’s usually straightforward to diagnose.
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2. Smell Only in the Hot Water
If the odor appears only when you use hot water, the source is almost always the water heater, not the well. Inside many water heaters is a magnesium anode rod. When that rod reacts with certain minerals, it can create a sulfur‑type “rotten egg” smell. It’s harmless — but annoying.

A powered anode rod is the long‑term fix for this specific issue. It stops that reaction, protects the tank from corrosion, and eliminates the odor at the source. You can learn more about how powered anode rods work — and the benefits they offer — by reviewing this Corro‑Protec brochure. 

If you’re interested in having one purchased and installed*, we can take care of that for you.

*110-volt outlet required for operation
 
3. Smell in Both Hot and Cold Water, but only in a few locations
If the odor shows up in only a few locations you use, the issue is the plumbing at those locations.

Common culprits:

• Specific sections of plumbing that need to be replaced
• Bacteria or organic material in the drain

When You’re Not Sure
If the smell comes and goes, or you’re getting mixed signals, that’s normal. Odor can shift depending on:

• How long the water has been sitting
• Time of year or season
• Which fixtures you’re using

That’s exactly why we built our flow chart — it helps you sort through the possibilities quickly.

Need Help Pinpointing It?
You can walk through the steps yourself using our Smell Chart, or we can handle the detective work for you. We’ll track down the source and explain what’s going on in plain language.
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Contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment or to learn more.

​It usually happens when you least expect it! Sure, today’s water heaters seem to be better designed than older models but they don’t seem to last as long. That’s why you’ll want to know the signs to watch for before it’s too late!

Did you know that water heaters require regular inspection and maintenance? Regular inspection consists of a) checking and changing the anode rod if needed (especially on hard water), b) testing the thermostat and valves, and c) checking for rust or leaks. Regular maintenance consists of draining and flushing the unit and should be done every six months or no less than once per year. These simple tasks can actually prolong their lives and use for years to come. An electric water heater will last between 10-15 years. A gas water heater will last between 8-12 years.

​Any one of the seven indications below can be a sign of a problem. Here's what to watch for:
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1) rust appears in the hot water faucets
2) lukewarm water and low water pressure
3) water pooling around the base of the water heater
4) hot water has a metallic smell and taste
5) strange, unfamiliar noises when water tank is heating
6) run out of hot water faster than usual
7) higher energy bills

Water Pro can repair and/or replace your water heater. If you would like us to provide you with a quote, it’s as easy as sending us: 1) gallons size, 2) dimensions of available space, and 3) a picture if possible.

 Contact us  today to inquire about water heaters or to schedule your water heater service appointment!
 
Reach out to us at ​804.693.7294 or send an email to [email protected] for more information.