AFWFilters Persistent odor through softener

Water has a metallic or rotten-egg odor even after softening

Advertisements

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.

Advertisements

Possible Causes

Hydrogen sulfide or iron bacteria in source water, Fouled resin, No pre-treatment for sulfur/iron

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Do not drink water with strong sulfur or metallic odors until tested.

  • Test raw water: Sample water before the softener and have it tested for iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide.
  • Clean resin: Use an iron-removal resin cleaner if iron fouling is suspected. Follow AFWFilters instructions for dosing and regeneration.
  • Consider pre-treatment: If hydrogen sulfide or high iron is present, install appropriate pre-treatment (e.g., oxidizing filter, aeration, or dedicated iron/sulfur filter) ahead of the softener.
  • Resin replacement: If odors persist and resin is old or heavily fouled, replace the resin media.
Advertisements

Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Cation Resin Media / Pre-Treatment Filter
Check Price on Amazon

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Advertisements