Why Your House Has A Sewer Smell
Most people find sewer smells disgusting, so you wouldn't want to live in a house with such smells. Unfortunately, your plumbing system can force you into such a situation if it is malfunctioning. Below are some of the plumbing issues that can make your house smell like a sewer.
Dry Drain Traps
Drain traps retain small amounts of water each all the time. The water seals the drain channel and prevents sewer gases from flowing back into the house. A drain trap can dry out and allow sewer gases to back up into the house. The problem typically arises if you don't use your plumbing system for a long time.
Drain Clogging
Clogs within drainage pipes can also lead to foul smells. Most of the debris that goes down the drain is organic in nature. Drain clogging can occur within the pipes, in drain openings, or even in the drain traps. If that happens, bacteria will act on the debris and decompose it. The decomposition process is similar to the one that happens in septic systems or sewage treatment plants — it gives off foul-smelling byproducts.
Missing Cleanout Plugs
Drain cleanouts are access points that allow you to reach into and clean drainage channels. The cleanouts come in handy if, say, debris blocks your drains, and you need to clean them fast. Cleanout plugs usually block the cleanout openings when you don't need to access the drainage channels.
Missing plugs can allow drain gases to flow out of the drains and get into the house. This is possible because the cleanouts typically sit outside but near the house's foundation.
Damaged Toilet Seal
Your toilet has a wax seal between the flange and the floor. The flange is the pipe that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. The seal provides an airtight and watertight toilet attachment to the floor. Thus, a damaged toilet seal will let sewer gases (and even water) seep out of the toilet.
Damaged Sewer/Septic Line
Lastly, sewer smells in the house can also come from disconnections or breakages on sewer or septic pipes. Hidden damage, such as damage to pipes behind walls or under floors, is common with this problem. Moreover, the damage can go unnoticed for a long period.
You can't know why your house is smelly unless you diagnose the problem. In many cases, simple solutions like pouring water in the drain trap can help. Consult a residential plumber for professional help if you are unable to diagnose or fix the issue.
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