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Why Does My House Smell Like Sewer?

Why Does My House Smell Like Sewer?

Why Does My House Smell Like Sewer?
Why Does My House Smell Like Sewer?
27 January,2025

If you walk into your home after a long day and you’re met with an unmistakable smell of sewage instead of being greeted by the comforting scent of your favorite candle, then you’re witnessing a red flag in real-time. Obvious enough, right?
In this brief article brought to you by High Speed Plumbing, we’ll explore some common causes of that unwelcome odor lingering in the air. We’ll also highlight some steps to take in certain scenarios.
If you’d rather have a trained plumber in Rancho Cucamonga investigate, then contact High Speed Plumbing to get in touch with a member of our team. We’re always happy to take your call or message.

Usual Suspect 1: Dry P-Traps

Every drain in your home has a P-trap, a pipe that resembles the letter P flipped on its side. This feature holds water to create a barrier between your living space and the sewer gases below. 
If a sink, shower, or drain isn’t used often, however, then the water in the P-trap can evaporate. This can allow sewer gases to escape into your home. 
Luckily, the fix is easy enough. Simply run water down the drain to refill the trap.

Usual Suspect 2: Blocked or Damaged Vent Pipes

Vent pipes are another feature of plumbing systems which tackle the dreaded issue of gas escape. These pipes regulate air pressure and allow sewer gases to escape outside. If these vents become blocked (usually by debris, bird nests, or even snow), then the gases can back up into your home.
If you can locate the vent pipes, then give them a quick inspection and clean out any blockages you find. Hiring a plumber might be a good idea here.

Usual Suspect 3: Cracked or Broken Sewer Pipes

If you’ve ruled out dry traps and vent issues and the problem persists, then the problem might lie deeper. Cracked or broken sewer pipes can allow sewage to leak into the soil around your home and the odor can seep through cracks in your foundation or basement floors. 
This is a more serious issue that often requires professional sewer repair. Ignoring this problem can allow waste and wastewater to contaminate underground water reserves or neighbors’ properties.

Usual Suspect 4: Sewer Line Backups

Deep problems aren’t always destructive ones. A partial or complete blockage in your sewer line can cause wastewater to back up into your home. This is sure to bring with it a foul smell. Tree roots, grease buildup, or collapsed pipes are common culprits. 
If you notice slow drains, gurgling noises, or sewage backups in multiple sinks or drains in addition to the odor, then it’s time to call a nearby local plumber. High Speed Plumbing’s advanced hydro jetting drain cleaning can clear the sewer line of even the most stubborn gunk and blockage.

When to Consider a Sewer Line Replacement

Many times, some sewer line cleaning or repair will have you back on schedule. If your home is over 40 years old and you’re frequently dealing with sewer line issues, however, then it might be more cost-effective to have the sewer line replaced.
The thought of replacing the sewer line might conjure images of your yard being torn apart, but there’s a better way. Our trenchless sewer line replacement methods eliminate the need for extensive excavation. Believe it or not, it’s also quicker than the traditional approach too!

Contact High Speed Plumbing Any Time

The smell of sewage is a serious cause for concern, and you shouldn’t have to wait through the weekend or holidays to have a plumber investigate. Contact High Speed Plumbing to get in touch with a live representative as soon as possible. We can have a plumber dispatched to your home or business today.

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