is it normal for lead pipes to smell of sulphur?

Question

I moved into a flat yesterday that is in quite an old buidling and was surprised to find that when I ran the cold tap a strong sulphur smell was present. Is this normal or could there be a problem?

Answer 1

It is likely to be caused by sulphur-metabolising bacteria somewhere further back in the supply. This could be due to the fact that the pipes have not been used for some time and the bacteria are in the pipes or tank or that the original water source is some kind of geological formation in which sulphurous bacteria live and break down sulphur-based compounds within the rock. If it is in the pipes or tank, then this shouldn't present a long term problem, a steady flow of water through the pipes should clear them out as these kinds of bacteria don't like oxygen and fresh water will bring fresh oxygen through the pipes and they should clear out pretty soon. It is unlikely to be from the original rock formation if you have a mains water supply (ie from the water company) this is usually only a problem for people who have their own water supply or well.

If the problem has not cleared up within a couple of days of running plenty of fresh clean water through the system, then try and get the pipes cleaned through or contact your water company for their advice.

Answer 2

I have had this problem before and it was all due to a couple of deceased pigeons in the cold storage tank. if this is the cause then a thorough cleaning with sodium hydroxide is the only solution. Lead pipes gain a coating of limescale within 5 years so there is no call to change them unless you want to. Many of the Country's houses still have a lead water main.

Answer 3

The pipes are probably Galvanize not lead, and the smell is probably the Water heater, check the smell on the cold side only, then check the hot side- give it a moment to clear after you turn it on- The water heater has a rod inside to prevent mineralization of the tank, as it erodes, it produces that smell, you can have it removed.

Answer 4

you gotta be kidding, you mean galvanized pipe it turns dark with age if it was lead you could be brain poison like an early case of Alzheimer's disease, try running the water from the street all the way to the Faust and wait before you do anything with it. that's called clearing the pipes, most city pipes are in better shape than the residential pipes in older sections of town and the water needs to run till it clear out or (run down your drain) then it's assumed to be fresh,

Answer 5

rainy h got it spot on and do not be alarmed by the scaremongering about lead pipes from the other answers. most houses over 40 years old (which is most of the country) have or had lead pipes and the ones that have removed the lead from the house still have it supplying the house from the road, i deal with it every week and have yet to meet anyone with lead poisening.

Answer 6

Two problems - firstly water pipes should NOT be in lead, secondly there should definately be no smell from your water supply. Get onto the water board immediately.

Answer 7

It could be bad plumbimg linking in with the sewage pipe from the toilet. I had that in my old flat and it was rather overpowering. It can be sorted out. I'd call a plumber.x

Answer 8

normal for well water in some areas...Are you sure they are lead pipes???!!! Lead accumulates in your body. Your body has no way to eliminate it. Either way....even 'clean' well water is hard water. Filtered water (not spring) is much better for you & lead free!!

Answer 9

yes, there is a problem. Call your local water utility.

Answer 10

The saying "sul far" is not so good springs to mind"!