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Eggy or sewage

It is a very common misconception when customers detect an eggy or sewage smell when using or drinking water, that the water itself is the cause. More often, it is a nearby plughole or drain, that is causing the smell.  

There is a quick and simple test you can do at home which normally establishes where the smell may be coming from. 

Quick Test

  • Choose a glass container and before you fill it up, make sure it smells normal to you (this ensures your dish washer hasn’t left a smell on the glass). 
  • Then fill up the glass from your cold kitchen tap (To ensure you are testing the water at its point of entry to your property).  
  • Take this glass of water to a room that has no drains or water supply in it and take a smell of the water. 
  • By doing this, you have completely isolated the water from any interfering smells and will be able to pinpoint the problem.   
  • If the smell disappears, then it is likely that the issue isn’t with the water itself. 

What to do next 

If the water didn’t smell after the test: 

  • Try cleaning the sink and overflow with very hot water and bleach. Be sure to follow manufacturer guidance when using bleach and only use cleaning chemicals that are safe for your kitchen surfaces. 
  • Be sure to throw out old, disposable sponges and dishcloths. 

If the smell continues, despite performing the test, and your neighbours are unaffected, contact an approved plumber here.

Chemical

Sometimes your water may have a ‘chemical’ or ‘medicinal' taste to it – click below to find out why.

Metallic or bitter

There are a few reasons why your water may have a ‘metallic’ or ‘bitter’ taste to it – find out what to check if this is the case.

Chlorine

Find out what may be causing your water to smell like swimming pool water.

Earthy or musty

If your water appears to have an earthy or musty taste, click here to find out more.

Fuel or oil

If you suspect that the taste or smell you are experiencing is more like ‘fuel’ or ‘oil’, please follow our advice here.

My water has changed

If your water has 'changed', find out why this has happened and what you can do to resolve it.

My water looks different

If your water appears discoloured, cloudy or has bits in it, click here to see what could be causing this.