Nobody wants to smell sewage in their home. And it’s quite alarming when you do. If you notice the smell of sewage anywhere in your home, it’s time to act… Your plumbing isn’t operating as it should. Let’s assess some of the sources of sewage odors, and the proper solutions.
Improper Ventilation
Sewage plumbing should be outfitted with vents. These vents help to relieve pressure that can build up within a pipe (pressure can grow due to live cultures and their release of gas, as well as temperature changes). In addition, sewer pipe vents keep sewer gas from seeping into your home. If you have a sewer vent that is backed up, you may notice sewer stench. Also, if your sewer system simply lacks ventilation (It happens!), your pipes are definitely prone to releasing sewer gas into your home. Proper ventilation should flow to the exterior of the home, thus keeping your home odor free.
A Sewage Backup
If you have a sewage backup, it’s probably quite noticeable. If you simply smell sewage, and don’t see an actual backup, listen for gurgling; your system may be on the verge of an overflow. It’s unfortunately more likely that you see a sewage backup as well as smell it. If you notice any sign of a backup, it’s time to inform all of the residents in your house that they shouldn’t use any water for the time being. Shut off the water main. Any additional water that flows into your sewage line might come right back out. Get in touch with a plumber as soon as possible, and prepare for flooding if the affected drain (or drains) are liable to pour sewage onto the floor. Sewer lines can back up for any number of reasons, including a buildup of hair, food waste, hygiene products, or objects that don’t belong in the drain.
Dry Traps
If you have dry traps, you have a problem with a relatively easy solution! Dry traps occur when the trap of a sewage pipe – that U-shaped bend underneath your sink is a great example – dries out. Plumbing traps are designed to hold just enough wastewater to keep gas from flowing backwards through the pipe. Over time, this wastewater can evaporate, leaving room for the gas to flow freely. Simply pour some water down the drain if you notice a smell and know that it isn’t due to a sewage backup. You may also have a “dry trap” if your plumbing system is simply missing the trap (It happens!). In this instance, you’ll have to have a plumber install a trap to keep sewage gasses where they belong.
InSink Plumbing Fixes Sewage Problems
Simply put, if you smell sewage, you want it fixed. That’s why we’re here. We know all about sewage problems, and we’ll do our best to fix them as soon as possible, so you can go about your day. We offer emergency plumbing solutions, so keep us in mind for any sewage backup or plumbing issue. Get in touch with us, we’re here to help!
