Top 3 Reasons Your RV’s Hot Water Stinks
Few things can ruin an RV trip faster than turning on the hot water and being hit with a foul odor. Whether it smells like rotten eggs, mildew, or something downright funky, smelly water is a common issue for RV owners. At North Atlantic RV Rentals, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you understand what’s going on inside your RV‘s water system.
1. Bacteria in the Water Heater Tank
The most common culprit behind stinky hot water is bacteria growing in your RV’s water heater tank. When water sits unused for a while, naturally occurring bacteria multiply, especially if the tank hasn’t been flushed regularly. The result? That unpleasant sulfur or “rotten egg” smell. Thankfully, flushing your water heater and sanitizing the system can usually clear this up.
2. Anode Rod Issues
If your RV has a Suburban-style water heater, it uses an anode rod to protect the tank from corrosion. Over time, the rod itself can react with minerals in the water, producing foul-smelling hydrogen sulfide gas. If your hot water smells metallic or sulfuric, the anode rod may be worn down and ready for replacement. Swapping it out is a simple job for many DIYers, but if you’re not confident, it’s always a good idea to have a professional handle it.
3. Stagnant or Contaminated Water Supply
Sometimes the problem isn’t in your RV at all. Instead, it’s the water you’ve filled up with. If water sits in your fresh tank too long, it can develop odors once heated. Alternatively, if you’re filling up at a questionable source, you may be introducing bacteria and minerals that cause unpleasant odors. Always sanitize your freshwater tank and use a trusted water source. Adding an inline water filter can also go a long way in keeping things fresh.
Fresh, Clean Water = Better Adventures
Nobody wants their RV trip spoiled by stinky hot water. With a little maintenance and the right fixes, you can get back to enjoying your travels. And if your RV needs more than just a quick repair—or you want to try something new—North Atlanta RV Rentals in Acworth, GA, offers reliable travel trailer rentals, Class A motorhome rentals, and Class C motorhome rentals to keep your adventures stress-free. Don’t let bad water stink up your trip. Get an instant quote at (770) 966-1551 today!