Triangle Tube Bacterial Growth / Anode Reaction in DHW Tank

Odor of rotten eggs or sulfur from hot water taps supplied by the Triangle Tube system.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Anaerobic bacteria in storage tank, Magnesium anode reacting with water chemistry, Low DHW temperature setting

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: High temperatures used for disinfection can cause scalding. Use caution and follow guidelines.

  • 1. Verify source: Confirm the odor is only from hot water, not cold. If both are affected, the issue may be with the municipal supply.
  • 2. Raise temperature temporarily: If safe, temporarily raise the tank temperature to 140°F (60°C) for several hours to help kill bacteria, then return to a safe setting and use a mixing valve to prevent scalding.
  • 3. Flush tank: Drain and flush the indirect tank thoroughly to remove sediment.
  • 4. Anode rod: If your indirect tank has an anode rod, consult the tank manual. Replacing a magnesium anode with an aluminum/zinc anode can reduce odor. This should be done by a technician.
  • 5. Ongoing treatment: In severe cases, periodic disinfection or water treatment may be required.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Indirect Tank Anode Rod
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