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spoon059's avatar
spoon059
Explorer II
Feb 19, 2014

chemical odor in water heater

I had a leaking relief valve on by Suburban water heater. I broke the valve while trying to replace it and had to use penetrating fluid and heat to break the threads free. Finally got the old valve out and put the new one in and got it working tip top again.

The problem I have now is that the water coming out of the tap has the distinct odor of the penetrating fluid. I've flushed the tank several times and the odor has decreased... but it is still there.

Does anyone know what I can run through the tank to get rid of the odor? I know you can use bleach or vinegar to get rid of the sulfur smell, just don't know if that will do anything for the chemical smell.

Thanks!

4 Replies

  • Worked great, thanks! I let it sit overnight with the baking soda solution in the heater, flushed it this morning. Just got out of the shower and don't smell any of the penetrating fluid!

    Especially nice after 6 miles on the bike pulling our daughter in the trailer in 85 degree Florida today!!!
  • Awesome, thanks. I will try to get out to the hardware store ASAP.
  • go to the hardware store and get adapters to convert the pressure relief valve "hole" to garden hose thread. attach garden hose to the new fitting, and then pull your anode rod from the bottom. let water flow through that tank (gas shut off!) for hours and then give it a sniff.

    alternately, mix up five gallons of baking soda and cold water. use a lot of soda. pour it into the relief valve hole, let it sit for a few hours, then drain it from the anode rod hole. repeat two-three times. baking soda will attack the hydrocarbon esters (oils) that are giving you the smell.