Some Useful Information About Hydrogen Sulfide

Water supplies that are used in homes are supposed to be pure and there cannot be any compromise on this. In this article, we will be spending some time getting to know more about the importance of hydrogen sulfide removal and how this can be done. As far as drinking water supplies are concerned, there are two types of sulfur that are commonly found. They are sulfate and hydrogen sulfide. Both are considered to be a nuisance. While they may not pose a major health risk at the right concentrations, they do spoil the taste of the water. It could also lead to damage to plumbing networks, well-casing and of course lead to cooked food also tasting bad. Hence, let us try and find out ways and means by which it is possible to remove hydrogen sulfide from domestic water supplies.

What Are The Sources of Hydrogen Sulfide & Sulfate

When we refer to sulfates, we are referring to a combination of oxygen and sulfur. These are part of naturally occurring minerals and they are released into the groundwater. There also could be other reasons that could contribute to this problem. Leaking fuel tanks, landfills, old septic systems, pipelines, and chemical labs are also considered community hazards. These could also lead to a spike in the levels of hydrogen sulfide and sulfates. Hence, to begin with, it would be a good idea to run a Community Hazard Report. This could help in identifying the active as well as historic hazards as far as your neighborhood is concerned.

We also need to understand that bacteria that have sulfur-reducing capabilities and which make use of sulfur as the main energy source are the primary culprits when it comes to the production of large quantities of hydrogen sulfide. The bacteria have the capability of chemically changing the natural sulfates in water and convert them into hydrogen sulfide. These bacteria thrive in environments that are oxygen deficient and these could include plumbing systems, deep wells, water heaters, and water softeners. Further, the bacteria generally flourish where there is a concentration of hot water in any water distribution system.

Indications of Hydrogen Sulfide Contamination

Many possible indications could point towards increased levels of sulfide contamination. They could make the cleaning of clothes difficult. They also get converted into sulfate and could lead to effects that are similar to iron bacteria. They could lead to the formation of a dark slime and it can clog plumbing networks and could also lead to staining of clothes.

On the other hand, hydrogen sulfide produces that rotten egg odor or what also is referred to as sulfur water odor and taste. In many places, the odor may become noticeable when the water supply is initially turned on. Hence it is common to see the use of magnesium corrosion rods in water heaters. These have the capability of reducing hydrogen sulfide and sulfates.

 The Final Word

It is therefore important to identify the source of the contamination and only after that will it be possible to take steps to neutralize excess hydrogen sulfide in well water, water softener machines, and also other such units. You have to appoint professionals to do the job for you.