Have you ever walked into your house and been hit with the unpleasant smell of sewer? It's not only disgusting, but it can also be a sign of a bigger problem. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of sewer smell in your home and provide tangible solutions to help you get rid of it.
What Causes Sewer Smell in Your Home?
There are several reasons why your home might smell like sewer. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Dry P-Traps
P-traps are the U-shaped pipes under your sink, shower, or bathtub that prevent sewer gas from entering your home. If you haven't used a particular fixture for a while, the water in the P-trap can evaporate, allowing sewer gas to enter your home.
2. Blocked Vent Pipes
Vent pipes are vertical pipes that allow air to flow through your plumbing system, preventing sewer gas from entering your home. If these pipes become blocked, the air can't flow, and sewer gas can enter your home.
3. Leaking Sewer Pipes
If your sewer pipes are leaking, the odor can seep into your home through cracks or holes in the pipes.
4. Sewer Backup
If your sewer line is clogged, it can cause sewer backup, which can lead to a foul smell in your home.
How to Get Rid of Sewer Smell in Your Home
Now that you know what causes sewer smell in your home, here are some solutions to get rid of it:
1. Run Water in Unused Fixtures
If you haven't used a particular fixture for a while, run water through it to refill the P-trap.
2. Check Vent Pipes
If you suspect your vent pipes are blocked, climb onto your roof and check for any debris or leaves blocking the pipes. You can also call a professional plumber to inspect and clean the pipes.
3. Repair Leaking Sewer Pipes
If you suspect your sewer pipes are leaking, call a professional plumber to inspect and repair them.
4. Call a Professional for Sewer Backup
If you suspect you have a sewer backup, call a professional plumber immediately. Sewage backup is a health hazard and requires professional cleanup.
Need Help? Call Evergreen Plumbing!
Sewer smell in your home is not only unpleasant but can also be a sign of a bigger problem. Use the solutions provided in this blog post to get rid of the odor and prevent it from coming back.
If you need professional help, don't hesitate to call Evergreen Plumbing & Mechanical LLC at (503) 714-7004. Our team of experienced plumbers in Salem, Oregon can help you solve any plumbing issue, including sewer smell in your home.