Common Sewer Odors in Your Home: What’s That Smell?

It wasn’t you. Your spouse isn’t home, and the dog is in the other room.

So what is it you smell, and where is it coming from? 

If the funky odor you smell seems to gravitate from the bathroom or near another sink or faucet, the culprit may be your sewer pipes. Sewer odors are more common than you might think and can range from mildly annoying to downright unbearable. 

Flow Masters Plumbing, Inc. uncovers some of the usual suspects behind these odors, explores how to correct the issue, and offers tips on getting your Atherton home smelling fresh again.

Sewer Smell in Your Home

If your house harbors a secret odor, here are a few places to inspect and what you can try to flush out that smell.

1. Dried-Out P-Traps

Imagine a P-trap as the humble hero of your plumbing system. It is the curved pipe under your sinks, toilets, and drains designed to hold a small amount of water. This water forms a seal that prevents sewer gases from making their way up the pipes into your home.

But what happens when that drain is left unused for a time, and the water evaporates? The trap dries out, and voilà—sewer odors start wafting through your house.

To combat this, regularly run water through all your sinks, showers, and bathtubs. If the odor persists despite this, you might need to consult a plumber to check for other issues.

2. Blocked Vent Pipes

Your home’s plumbing system relies on vent pipes to allow sewer gases to escape safely outside. You might notice unpleasant smells if these vents get clogged by leaves, nests, or even snow [replace with “other debris” if non-snowy region]. The blockage prevents gases from exiting through the roof, causing them to go back into your home instead.

To address this, check your roof for visible signs of blockage, such as debris or nests. For a more thorough inspection or if you are unable to safely check the vents, hire a professional plumber from Flow Masters Plumbing, Inc. who can handle it safely and efficiently.

3. Damaged Sewer Lines

Sewer lines are the pipes outside that connect your home to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. Sewer lines can crack or break, and the consequences can be severe. Damaged sewer lines often lead to unpleasant smells creeping into your home. These issues can be caused by tree roots invading the pipes, ground shifting, or pipe deterioration over time.

If you suspect your sewer lines are damaged, you might notice other signs, such as slow drains, gurgling noises, or even sewage backups. 

In these cases, it is crucial to address the problem quickly to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Flow Masters Plumbing, Inc. can conduct a camera inspection to pinpoint the issue and recommend the best solution.

4. Leaky or Faulty Drain Pipes

Sometimes, the sewer odor in your home may be due to leaky or faulty drain pipes—the system of pipes in your home carrying the wastewater to the sewer line.

Over time, these pipes can corrode, joints can fail, and connections can become loose. These leaks can let sewer gases escape into your home, creating an unpleasant atmosphere.

If you detect persistent sewer smells, it might be worth checking for leaks around your sewer lines. Look for wet spots or any signs of mold growth around your pipes. 

If you suspect a leak, calling in an experienced plumber is essential. They can repair or replace the damaged pipes and restore your home’s air quality.

5. Clogged or Broken Sewer Trap

In addition to the P-traps under individual fixtures, your main sewer trap is another crucial component. This trap is also designed to keep sewer gases from escaping into your home. If it is clogged or broken, odors can seep through.

Professional sewer pipe cleaning services, such as hydro jetting, use high-pressure water to clear out stubborn blockages and debris, effectively reducing the risk of odor-causing backups.

If you notice any signs of blockage, such as slow drainage or foul smells, a plumbing company near you should inspect and clean the trap. They can ensure it is functioning correctly and address any underlying issues.

Flow Masters Plumbing, Inc. Solves Sewer Smells

Don’t just blame the dog and ignore the smells until the stench becomes unbearable—schedule regular sewer maintenance to keep your pipes clear and your home smelling fresh.

Flow Masters Plumbing, Inc. is your trusted residential plumbing specialist in Atherton. Our experienced team can diagnose and fix any sewer-related problems, ensuring your home remains fresh and comfortable.

Reach out to Flow Masters Plumbing, Inc. today, and let us tackle your plumbing issues with expertise and care. Call 415-529-5351 or request service online. Say goodbye to sewer smells and hello to a cleaner, more pleasant home environment!