Chlorine Smell

Sodium hypochlorite, which is chlorine in its liquid form, is a common disinfectant added to the water distribution system to kill bacteria, viruses, and protozoans.  The Public Utilities Department maintains the chlorine in the distribution system at 1 mg/l. For comparison, household bleach is 50,000 mg/l chlorine. 

What Causes The Smell?

The EPA mandates a certain level of chlorine must be present in public water supplies, which is known as a “residual.”  If the residual is below 0.2 mg/l or exceeds 1mg/l, a noticeable smell will be present.

There are several reasons why the water at your tap may have a fluctuation in the chlorine residual in the system. For instance, when water must travel an extended distance through the pipe system, heavy chlorination is required to compensate for potential dissipation during the journey.  Depending on how far down the pipeline you live, the smell may be more or less apparent.  Flushing of a fire hydrant or a water main break can lower the chlorine residual.  Weather can also contribute to a stronger chlorine smell.  Warm weather can cause the residual to disperse more quickly; therefore, the Public Utilities Department must raise the chlorine level accordingly.  

What Should You Do?

It is important to note that while a chlorine smell is undoubtedly unpleasant, exposure to levels below 4mg/l poses no risk to human health. However, it’s relatively easy to eliminate the odor with two solutions: time or a carbon water filter.

• Fill a pitcher with water and allow it to sit for several hours on the counter or in the refrigerator.  The chlorine will evaporate from the water.
• A faster way to remove the taste of chlorine from your water is to boil the water for about 15-20 minutes.  Store the water in a clean container in the refrigerator and use it after it has cooled.
• Though the passage of time will cause chlorinated water to lose its smell, a more immediate resolution is to utilize a water cooler with carbon filtration built in. This can effectively reduce the levels of chlorine odor from water while preserving its quality.

Pink Film

Occasionally customers may discover a slimy, pink film or stain in the sink, toilet, shower, or on other moist surfaces. The pink residue is generally not an indicator of a water quality concern. The culprit is typically Serratia marcescens, an extremely common airborne bacteria found naturally in many places, including soil, dust, and feces.  Known for its pinkish-red pigment, S. marcescens needs very little to survive and thrives on moisture, dust, and the phosphates found in soaps, gels, and shampoos.       

What Should I Do?
Once the bacteria is established in the area, it is difficult to eliminate.  Prevention is key to keep the bacteria from making your home its home.  The following are recommendations to control the "pink in the sink":

• Regularly clean the areas the bacteria is likely to grow with a chlorine-based cleaner and soft bristle scrub. 
• Drying your sinks and showers after use with a rag or squeegee can prevent the bacteria from taking hold.
• Using disposable wipes with bleach on surfaces can help to inhibit bacteria growth.  *NOTE:  Do NOT flush the wipe down the toilet after use.  This can cause a clog in your pipes and a sewer backup - and more bacteria - entering your home.
• Serratia marcescens does not survive in chlorinated water.  To keep it out of your toilet bowl, place 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach into your toilet tank.  Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes, then flush the tank to allow the bowl to be disinfected.  Flush the toilet a few times to remove the disinfectant.  *NOTE:  We do not recommend using toilet "cakes" or leaving bleach in the toilet tank for extended periods of time.  Standing, heavy doses of bleach can damage the valves and rubber seals, leading to costly toilet leaks.
• Though bleach is best, homeowners can use a solution of one-part vinegar and one-part water to battle the bacteria.  Spray the mix over the area and scrub with a soft brush.

Sulfur Smell

A "rotten egg" smell is caused by hydrogen sulfide gas or sulfur bacteria.  The hydrogen sulfide can be found naturally in groundwater or wells.  Tap water delivered from the ACC Public Utilities Department is pulled from surface water, specifically the Middle and North Oconee Rivers and the Bear Creek Reservoir, so it is unlikely a rotten egg smell in the water is from the source.

To determine the cause, check to see if the odor comes from both the cold and hot water faucets. 

• If no odor from the cold water faucet, the problem is likely in the water heater.
• If odor from both the cold and hot water faucet, do you have a water softener?
  • If there is no smell from faucets not connected to the water softener, then the problem is likely sulfur bacteria in the water softener.
  • If the smell comes from all faucets without a water softener, the problem is likely sulfur bacteria in the plumbing system.

What Should I Do?
If the problem is with your hot water, then start with your water heater.   

• Flush your water heater.  You will need a hose, screwdriver, and bucket.
  
  
   
• Replace the sacrificial anode rod.  The rod, which is attached to a plug located on top of the water heater,  typically lasts three to five years. Replacing the anode rod can eliminate the sulfur smell and extend the life of your water heater.  You may need to consult an experienced plumber or water professional for assistance with the repair and to determine if a replacement anode made of a different material, such as zinc, can be installed to assist with odor prevention.
• Increase the water heater temperature to 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) for 6-10 hours.  The high temperatures should kill the odor-causing bacteria.  Turn off the tank and allow the water to cool, then flush again to remove the dead bacteria. Remember to lower the thermostat setting reduce the water temperature after the process to avoid injury from scalding water.
• If the problem is in a water softener or other treatment devices, contact the installer or manufacturer for disinfection instructions.