How to Get Rid Of Sewer Smell In Basement: Full Detailed Guide

Basements are well-known for being the coldest and most wet areas in your home. The sewer smell in your basement is due to sewage. This means that there must be something done in your plumbing system. This guide will show you how to eliminate the sewer smell from the basement. You don’t have to suffer from the unpleasant odors that can accompany sinus infections, bronchitis and headaches. Learn how to get rid of sewer smell in basement. These methods will save you time and money by not having to call in professionals.

How to get rid of sewer smell in basement

You’re likely familiar with the musty, mildewy scent if you’ve ever lived in a basement. It might have made it difficult to get holiday decorations out of storage or hindered you from finishing your basement. There is no reason why your basement shouldn’t smell just as welcoming and fresh as the rest. Roto-Rooter’s quick tips will help eliminate basement odor and make your basement a pleasant, functional space. Here are some tips on how to get rid of sewer smell in basement.

Check this DIY guide: How to waterproof a basement

Recognizing the sewage smell in the basement

Most of your efforts in identifying the source of sewer gas smell in your house will be based on trial and error. First, you need to understand what causes the sewer gas smell in your home to leak and where to look beyond the leak in your septic tank. Regarding plumbing issues, drains, vents, and pipes are the best places to begin. Keep some of this equipment handy when looking for sewage leaks or concerns. You may encounter a few cobwebs while determining the smell’s source. While trying to find the start of the scent, have a method ready to eliminate spiders from the basement.

You may not need all the supplies, depending on the cause. If you are exposed to the gas for long periods, it is important to have some protection. A face mask is essential as you might spend time finding and solving the problem while also being exposed to toxic gases. Another common cause is the presence of washing machines in the basement. Also, you need to check for mold and mildew.

The water trap is worth a look

A dried-up water trap is one reason your basement smells like poop. They are found on the basement floor and inside the drains. These traps prevent room flooding. These traps hold water to seal your pipeline and prevent foul odors from causing havoc in your basement. The water trap will dry out if it is not used for a long time and lose the protection that prevents odors from spreading. The problem can be resolved with a small amount of hot water. Pour approximately one-gallon water into the dry trap for an extra fresh scent. Mix in mild dish detergent to make it even more fragrant. This method can also remove the smell of sewers from shower drains.

Basement drains

The cleanout plug is another common source of sewage smell within your floor drain. This plug directs the sewage water to flow into the sewage line instead of collecting it in the gutter. The sewer gas can return to your home if it is damaged or cracked by something. It is easiest to replace the cleanout. To check its condition, remove the drain grate. Then, if it is cracked or missing completely, you can purchase a replacement one at the store. If the smell persists, look for other possible causes.

Appliance problems

Proper venting is a problem if your laundry room is located above or in the basement. Most appliances have a vent system regulating sewer gases’ flow and distribution. If your washing machine drain is blocked by hair or is not properly connected, it can cause basement drain smells to re-enter the home. It is best to clean out the pipes with bleach. This problem can occur in many appliances, including air conditioners that are improperly connected to a sewage pipe.

Fixtures in the basement or nearby could also cause this problem. Broken p-traps on kitchen sinks or toilets can cause sewer gases to rise again rather than be trapped in the pipes as their design intended. A toilet’s damaged wax ring or flange can cause the same problems. It is important to replace the seal if it has broken. The caulk at the base of your toilet should also be replaced. Replace it immediately if it cracks or is dry.

Replacing a broken sewer line

The sewer line is the main cause of basement smells. These noxious smells can be caused by several problems with the sewer line, such as damaged piping or a broken ejector. To keep the gas out, the ejector pit must be sealed tightly. Check for cracks or other damage. Cracks in the pipes can also cause problems. The sewer system lets the wastewater seep into the ground and the sump pumps. The sump pump keeps your basement dry right from the start. This can lead to a sewer smell in your home if it builds up too much. This issue usually requires professional assistance from a plumber to prevent further damage to your foundation and soil. Keep their number handy just in case.

Vinegar can prevent drain clogs

You may be wondering how to protect my basement from future plumbing problems. This basement odor eliminator is made with the dynamite combination of vinegar and baking soda. It can be used whenever there is an unpleasant odor or slow draining water in the sinks or toilets. The vinegar should be added to the drain. Finally, seal the drain with a towel or a rubber band to allow the ingredients to interact inside the pipes. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the plug and pour hot water down into your drain. This DIY recipe can also be used to kill gnats stuck in drain pipes. This mixture can eliminate sewage smells from bathrooms, and basement floor drains. You can repeat the process if the first application fails to solve the problem.

Causes of sewer smell in basement

Sewage gas smells when it rains

Bad breath can be caused by sewage gas leaking from the floor drain during heavy rains. This happens because of increased air pressure, which causes the air to become richer and fall. Then the sewage gas rises from the exhaust pipes and takes its place. You may also smell rotten eggs after heavy rains. This is because sewage gas pushes upwards from the pipes due to water gravitating through them. Rain can also cause organic material to decompose in pipes, releasing additional odors. You can retain the sewage gas smell in the lines with a U-shaped sewer and a water siphon. For full coverage, most home insurance policies require that you have a siphon and drain.

Winter months and cold weather

For many reasons, sewage odors will intensify during winter and cold weather. Ice can cause drains cracks, leading to sewer odor throughout the house and plumbing openings. Small animals can also block the pipes and create an unpleasant odor. Frozen pipes can cause sewage gas to enter your basement. Frozen pipes can also crack and clog, which could require a complete sewer replacement or defrosting if your basement is not to smell and cause damage.

How to get rid of sewer smell in basement: Tips

First, identify the source of the sewage gas entering your home. Next, try these tips to get rid of them.

• Ensure plumbing fixtures are correctly installed with the correct P-traps, vents, and other fittings. Check your siphons for adequate water retention. To ensure the proper installation, call a professional plumber.
• Boil one gallon of water to fill frequently used drains, such as the basement drain or guest bathroom shower. This will help to eliminate odors that are caused by dry traps.
• Reinstall the wax rings around your toilet bowl. They may have become worn or old and allowed sewage gas in.
• A professional plumber should be able to disconnect the ventilation pipes from your home and clean the vent openings on the roof. This will clear any obstructions and allow sewage gas to escape your home.

Conclusion

These simple methods will help you identify and get rid of sewer smell in basement. These simple steps can be used to eliminate basement odors, no matter the reason.