What You Need to Know About Hydrogen Sulfide in Drinking Water

Hydrogen sulfide gas can occur in wells anywhere in Vermont and gives the water a characteristic "rotten egg" taste or smell. Hydrogen sulfide gas or sulfur bacteria in your water can cause other problems:

  • Sulfur bacteria produce a slime and can promote the growth of other bacteria, such as iron bacteria. The slime can clog wells, plumbing and irrigation systems. Bacterial slime may be white, grey, black or reddish-brown if associated with iron bacteria.

  • Hydrogen sulfide gas can cause black stains on silverware and plumbing fixtures.

  • Hydrogen sulfide gas can corrode pipes and other metal components of the plumbing.

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