Sewer Smell in House? Common Causes and How to Eliminate It

Have you ever walked into your home and caught a nasty odor that smells like rotten eggs or something just… off? That unpleasant sewer smell in house is something many homeowners deal with at some point. It can sneak up on you and quickly make your home feel less clean and comfortable.

Sometimes, the cause is something small and easy to fix. Other times, it may point to a bigger issue, like a plumbing problem or even a backup. In cases like that, sewage cleanup and sanitation might be needed to get things safely back to normal. Either way, knowing what to look for can help you stop the smell and keep your home fresh. Let’s take a closer look at what might be causing the sewer smell in house and how you can get rid of it.

10 Common Causes of Sewer Smell in House

If you notice a sewer smell in house, it’s important to find out where it’s coming from. Some causes are simple, like a dry drain, while others might be more serious, like a broken pipe. Here are ten common reasons your home might smell like sewage.

1. Dry Drains (P-Traps)

Every drain in your home—whether in a sink, tub, or floor—has a curved pipe underneath called a P-trap. These pipes are designed to hold a small amount of water that keeps sewer gas from coming up into your home. When the water in the trap dries out, usually in drains that aren’t used often, the odor can start to seep through.

2. Clogged Drains

Over time, drains can collect materials like hair, food particles, grease, and soap scum. As these materials sit and break down, they can create a foul, sewer-like smell that spreads through your home. These odors may be noticeable even if the drain still works.

3. Cracked or Broken Sewer Pipes

When a sewer pipe cracks or breaks under your home or inside a wall, it allows sewer gases to leak out. These gases can travel into your living space, creating a strong, unpleasant odor. This kind of issue can also lead to moisture problems or property damage if left untreated.

4. Blocked Vent Pipes

Your plumbing system has vertical vent pipes that help release sewer gases out through your roof. If these vents become blocked by debris, such as leaves, bird nests, or other outdoor elements, the gases have nowhere to go and can build up inside your home.

5. Worn-Out Toilet Wax Ring

Beneath every toilet is a wax ring that seals the connection between the toilet and the drainpipe. If that ring becomes damaged, loose, or misaligned, it can allow sewer gases to leak out around the base of the toilet, even if there are no visible signs of leaking water.

6. Full or Overflowing Septic Tank

If your home uses a septic system, regular upkeep is necessary. When the tank becomes too full or if there’s a blockage, sewer gases can push back through the plumbing, causing a sewer smell in house. This is often noticeable near sinks, tubs, or toilets.

7. Improper Plumbing Installation

If plumbing fixtures or pipes are not installed correctly, they may lack proper vents or traps. These missing components can make it easier for sewer gases to enter your home. This is sometimes found in older homes or after past renovation work.

8. Mold or Bacteria in Drain Lines

Even when there’s no clog, bacteria and mold can grow inside damp drain lines. These microorganisms can create musty or sewage-like smells that spread throughout the house, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

9. Sump Pump Odors

If your home has a sump pump in the basement or crawl space, the pit where it sits can collect water, debris, and bacteria over time. If not cleaned or maintained properly, this area can begin to produce strong, unpleasant odors.

10. Sewage Backup

A sewage backup is one of the most serious causes of a sewer smell in house. This occurs when wastewater flows back into your home because of a blockage or damage in the sewer line. When this happens, immediate sewage cleanup and sanitation are needed to avoid health risks and prevent more damage to your property.

How to Eliminate Sewer Smell in House

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If you’re dealing with a sewer smell in house, the first step is identifying and addressing the source. For smaller issues, like dry drains or clogged pipes, you can typically eliminate the smell by pouring water into dry traps or cleaning out the drains. Keeping your plumbing system well-maintained by fixing any leaks, cracks, or clogs early can prevent unpleasant odors from taking over your home.

For more serious problems, like broken sewer pipes, mold or bacteria in drain lines, or sewage backups, it’s best to call a professional. A restoration expert can handle more complex issues like repairing pipes, mold removal, or providing sewage cleanup to ensure your home is safe and odor-free. Prompt action can not only restore your home’s comfort but also protect your health and property from further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a sewer smell dangerous?

Yes, a sewer smell in your house can be dangerous. It’s often caused by sewer gases, which contain poisonous chemicals like methane and hydrogen sulfide. Prolonged exposure can harm your health, so it’s important to address the problem quickly.

What are the symptoms of sewer gas poisoning?

Sewer gas poisoning symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, tiredness, and nausea. You may feel lightheaded or want to vomit. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must get fresh air directly and seek medical help if they don’t go away.

Can air fresheners help with a sewer smell?

While air fresheners may temporarily mask the sewer smell in house, they don’t address the root cause of the problem. It’s important to identify and fix the source of the odor for a long-term solution. Relying solely on air fresheners will only provide a temporary fix.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a sewer smell in house can be both unpleasant and concerning. Whether it’s a simple issue like a dry drain or a more serious problem such as a broken sewer pipe or sewage backup, it’s important to find the source and act quickly to prevent further damage. If the smell persists or you’re unsure about the cause, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to assess and fix the problem. Taking care of it early can help keep your home safe, comfortable, and odor-free.

If you’re facing more complicated sewer issues, you may need professional help to make sure everything is cleaned and restored properly. At PuroClean Zephyrhills, we specialize in restoration services, including sewage cleanup and sanitation, to get your home back to normal. Contact us today to learn more!