Sulfur bacteria smell from Electric Hot Water Heater

[Murphysf]

Hello

My friend has a vacation condo at Lake Tahoe.

Because of personal issues he hasn't been using the vacation home for a long time. I was just there with him this past week and while washing my hands I noticed a strong sulfur smell from the hot water.

I understand this is sulfur bacteria most likely from not using hot water.

I wanted to add that the water at his condo complex is high quality treated water coming from the local municipal source.

The electric water heater is a Reliance 606, model 650DORT with a manufacturing date of January 2007.

Should we try to flush it 2-3 times to get rid of the smell / bacteria?

Other ideas?

Thanks!

 

[Reach4]

Yes, flush. Flushing a water heater is an easy DIY thing. See https://terrylove.com/forums/index....o-flush-a-hot-water-heater.79444/#post-576623 post #7.


If that does not improve things successfully, I would try sanitizing the plumbing. https://terrylove.com/forums/index....izing-extra-attention-to-4-inch-casing.65845/ is my well sanitizing write-up for submersible wells and associated plumbing. That is not directy applicable. Instead you could use a utility pump to circulate the water and supply the sanitizing solution. Do not mix vinegar and bleach directly; that will produce chlorine gas. In a well, you let any mixing occur in the well. Somehow you would do this only after the vinegar had been largely diluted. If you are considering this, post more. If the simple flushes powered by city water pressure do the job, great.