However, the process sometimes reduces the hydrogen sulfide to acceptable amounts. A diffuser, cascade or spray aeration system above the tank aerates the incoming water. The release of the water pressure and exposure to the air removes some of the sulfur compounds. Oxidation removes some of hydrogen sulfide gas. The process does produce the strong hydrogen sulfide odor near the aerator.
Aeration releases hydrogen sulfide and provides an acceptable water supply for the household.
The storage tank and aeration system must be secure to prevent contamination of the water supply. Operation of the aeration system requires good ventilation. The tank needs occasional cleaning as precipitated sulfur, iron sulfide, rust and algae col- lect. A valve controlled drain line to the ground surface makes flushing the storage tank, once or twice each year, easier. Besides reducing the sulfur content, aeration also helps remove some of the iron, if present in the water.