Hydrogen sulfide gas and sulfate are two types of sulfur commonly found in drinking water supplies. Hydrogen sulfide gas is a naturally occurring gas produced by bacteria that live in some wells and plumbing systems. The bacteria are not known to cause disease. Hydrogen sulfide may give off a musty or rotten egg odor and flavor in the water. Plumbing system corrosion and leaking may occur after long periods of degradation. A black, slimy residue is a common characteristic of sulfur found in toilet water tanks and around sink basins.

Sulfate is a naturally occurring mineral in some soil and rock formations that contain groundwater.

Sulfate generally causes a scale buildup in plumbing systems. The water may have a laxative effect on young livestock and humans unaccustomed to drinking water with sulfate in it.

A sulfur treatment system from Superior Water Systems is your surest bet to eliminate these noxious odors. Sulfur solutions range from a simple in-line carbon filter starting at $200 to more elaborate, injection/retention solutions priced from $2000.