How to Solve Hydrogen Sulfide Gas in Drinking Water

One of the most common complaints among those who have well water in their homes is of an unpleasant smell not too dissimilar to rotten eggs. The "rotten egg smell" issue has caused countless individuals to worry about the safety of their drinking water. This problem is caused by a presence of hydrogen sulfide gas, and in most cases is not harmful; even so, it can be very unpleasant for drinking and cooking. Fortunately, there are a few ways to mitigate the problems caused by excessive hydrogen peroxide in drinking water.

Things You'll Need

• Home hydrogen sulfide test
• Carbon filtration system
• Iron removal filter
• Chlorination system

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Instructions

• 1

  Measure the levels of hydrogen sulfide gas in your water with a home water test kit. As tests vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, be sure to follow the instructions that come with the kit.

• 2

  Treat your water with a simple carbon filtration system if your test measures only a small amount of hydrogen sulfide gas; up to 1 mg. Carbon filters can be installed either on the well itself, or a simple home filtration system, such as those produced by Brita, can be used to clean up the sulfur odor. The simplest and least expensive option is to attach a filtration system directly to your faucet, which will filter all of the water you use for cooking or drinking. Ensure that you change your carbon filter every four weeks for optimal efficacy.

• 3

  Install an iron removal filter on your well if your water measures between 1 and 10 mg of hydrogen sulfide gas. The manganese greensand contained in an iron removal filter oxidizes hydrogen sulfide, which effectively works to remove the odor issue that is associated with the gas. Like carbon filtration, manganese greensand filters must be replaced periodically in order to ensure effectiveness.

• 4

  Install a chlorination system in your well if your measurements turn out to be more than 10 mg of hydrogen sulfide gas. This is the most common treatment for sulfide gas, although chlorine can lend an objectionable taste to water when added disproportionately. To ensure proper implementation, work with a water treatment specialist who can analyze and troubleshoot the installation.