Testing to Diagnose a Problem

Smells like eggs, onions, or similar odor

Probably hydrogen sulfide, one of two common types of sulfur that commonly does not pose health risks.

Check out these links for more info:

• Sulfate and Hydrogen Sulfide in Household Water (Virginia Tech, Virginia Household Water Quality Program)
• Drinking Water: Sulfur (Sulfate and Hydrogen Sulfide) (University of Nebraska)

Orange, brown, or black stains

Probably iron or manganese.

For more information follow these links:

• Iron in Drinking Water (University of Idaho Extension)
• Iron in Drinking Water (Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources)

White chalky spots on dishes and plumbing fixtures

Sounds like hard water. The spots are calcium and magnesium.

See info at:

• Drinking Water: Hard Water (University of Nebraska)
• Household Water Quality - Water Hardness (Virginia Cooperative Extension)

More information on testing and treatment

Try these links and also visit our Water Treatment page.

• Household Water Treatment (Virginia Cooperative Extension; PDF)
• Water Quality Information for Consumers (Cornell University Cooperative Extension)