Stinky water/poor pressure (hot water heater)

[Phil Gibson]

Our tenant has complained of stinky water for quite some time. At the recommendation of the water company we have lowered and increased the water temp (between 110 and 130) and have treated the heater with bleach to kill any bacteria. The water company said that the tank is too large for the one resident in the apartment. We do not have a dishwasher or clothes washer what is the appropriate size tank for a single resident?? The tank is currently a 30 gallon.Also, in an effort to treat the unit we have messed up the water pressure. Occassionally, there is not hot water pressure. How is the pressure adjusted??If the unit needs to be replaced, do you recommend getting a plumber, or can it be done by the clueless??Thanks for your help!!!Missy

[Missy]

: Our tenant has complained of stinky water for quite some time. At the recommendation of the water company we have lowered and increased the water temp (between 110 and 130) and have treated the heater with bleach to kill any bacteria. The water company said that the tank is too large for the one resident in the apartment. We do not have a dishwasher or clothes washer what is the appropriate size tank for a single resident?? The tank is currently a 30 gallon.: Also, in an effort to treat the unit we have messed up the water pressure. Occassionally, there is not hot water pressure. How is the pressure adjusted??: If the unit needs to be replaced, do you recommend getting a plumber, or can it be done by the clueless??: Thanks for your help!!!: MissyThe only things I can think of that would lower your water pressure would be if the inlet vavle to the water heater was not fully open or if there is a blockage somewhere.IMHO a 30 gallon water heater is not to large for a single resident.If the hot water has a rotten egg odor it could be from bacteria that react with the magnesium anode rod to produce hydrogen sulfide. Bleach can kill the bacteria or you can try an aluminum anode rod.I have extensive information about water heater trouble shooting etc. at my website. There is a link to step by step replacement of your water heater as well.Hope this helps.

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