ServiceNomad RV · Knowledge
Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell in RV Hot Water
Why hot water can smell like rotten eggs in an RV and how technicians typically address it.
Anode Rod Reaction
Suburban heaters use a magnesium anode rod. This metal reacts with certain microbes in water to produce hydrogen sulfide gas (rotten egg smell). Switching to an aluminum-zinc alloy anode rod often eliminates the smell.
Sanitize System
The system likely has bacteria. A full fresh water system sanitization with a bleach solution (consult your manual) can kill the bacteria causing the odor.
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