A strong gas smell or rotten egg odor around your water heater in Tacoma is something you should never ignore. These odors can signal problems such as gas leaks, faulty vents, or bacteria in the tank. Acting quickly is the safest way to protect your home, your family, and your plumbing system.
Let’s see below what these smells might mean, what steps you should take, and when it’s time to call a professional plumber.
Why Gas and Rotten Odors Happen Around Water Heaters
Strange smells near your water heater in Tacoma can come from a few different issues. Understanding the cause can help you respond the right way:
- Gas leaks – Natural gas is odorless, but a sulfur-like or rotten egg smell comes from an additive that is mixed into it to help you detect leaks.
- Bacteria growth – Sometimes, the odor comes from bacteria living inside the water tank, especially if the water is warm but not hot enough to kill them.
- Ventilation issues – Poorly vented systems can push gas or exhaust back into your home.
- Plumbing connections – Loose fittings or worn-out parts may release gas or cause unusual smells.
Each of these problems can range from minor to serious, which is why it is important to check carefully and act quickly.
First Steps if You Smell Gas
If the odor smells strongly of gas:
- Leave the area immediately – Get everyone out of the house.
- Do not use electrical switches – Turning lights or appliances on and off could create sparks.
- Call the gas company or emergency services – Report the suspected leak right away.
- Wait for clearance before going back inside – Only return when professionals confirm it is safe.
Gas leaks are emergencies. Even if you are unsure, it is always better to be cautious.
What to Do If the Odor Smells Like Rotten Eggs in the Water
If the odor is mostly in the water itself rather than in the air, bacteria in the tank could be the reason. This often happens when water sits in the tank too long or if the water is not hot enough.
In this case, you can:
- Run hot water through the faucets for several minutes.
- Adjust the thermostat so the water stays hot enough to discourage bacterial growth.
- Consider flushing the tank to clear out sediment and buildup.
If the odor continues after trying these steps, a licensed plumber can inspect the tank and recommend the best fix.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Smell
Gas leaks and bacterial issues may seem different, but both can affect your home’s safety and comfort. Ignoring the smell could lead to:
- Health problems from breathing in gas or contaminated air.
- Fire risks caused by leaking natural gas.
- Damage to your water heater if bacteria or sediment build up inside the tank.
Taking care of the problem right away helps you avoid bigger issues and keeps your system running properly.
When to Call a Plumber
After addressing urgent safety issues, your next move should be to call a licensed plumber. A professional can:
- Check gas lines and connections for leaks.
- Inspect the water heater tank for bacteria or sediment buildup.
- Test the ventilation system to make sure fumes are not being pushed back into your home.
- Replace worn-out parts or faulty valves.
Professional inspections help catch problems that may not be obvious. This gives you peace of mind knowing your home is safe.
Common Services Linked to Water Heater Odors in Tacoma
When odors appear around a water heater in Tacoma, the cause often comes from gas leaks, bacterial buildup, or faulty connections. Professional plumbers can:
- Inspect gas lines for leaks
- Flush the water heater to remove bacteria and sediment
- Replace worn anode rods that can cause sulfur-like smells
- Check ventilation to keep the system operating safely
Addressing these problems early protects both your home and your health. If the smell lingers after simple steps, it is important to bring in trained experts to handle the issue safely.
Related Articles:
- Why Is Water Pooling Around My Water Heater in Renton?
- Bonney Lake Plumbing: Causes of Sulfur Smell in Residential Water
Stay Safe with Expert Plumbing Support
If you smell gas or notice rotten odors near your water heater in Tacoma, do not wait. Start by making sure everyone is safe, contact the gas company if needed, and then reach out to a plumber to check your system.
In & Out Plumbing is a family-owned company serving Tacoma homeowners with certified plumbing services. Our technicians are trained to find the source of water heater and plumbing issues and fix them safely and effectively.
Protect your family and home from hidden gas or plumbing risks. Schedule service with a certified technician now.
