You might occasionally notice unpleasant smells in your residence, especially in the vicinity of the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry facility. Raw sewage odors in these areas often indicate problems with the septic tank, pipes, and other components. Although you should call for a professional inspection, knowing the potential causes can help you locate the issue and prevent future occurrences. 

Why Can You Smell Sewage in Your Home?

1. Leaks & Blockages

Cracks and fissures in the main line allow sewer gases to escape, filling the basement or crawl space and eventually getting into the indoor air supply. Damaged wastewater pipes may also result in raw sewage leaks and pooling on your property, creating unpleasant odors. Clogged drains or blocked pipes leading to the septic tank tend to trap sewer gases and back them up into your home. 

2. Vent Problems 

Plumbing vents on the roof regulate pressure in the sewer pipes as wastewater travels from your home to the septic tank. When these vents become blocked by ice, bird nests, or fallen tree debris, drain pressure escalates, causing gas to back up through the pipes. The problem can also result from a vent that’s too short or narrow to regulate the pressure adequately.

3. Dry Traps

Sewer system drains have P-shaped traps that fill with water to block out gases. The traps can dry up when toilets, sinks, and showers remain unused for extended periods, causing the moisture to evaporate. 

Without the liquid seal, gases will flow into your residence. Prevent this by periodically pouring water down basins and drains that you use less often. 

When you smell sewer gas on your property, get in touch with the team at Pedersen and Co. Pumping, Inc. This septic company provides cleaning, maintenance, inspections, and repairs to commercial and residential customers throughout Kalispell, MT. Call (406) 752-4321 to report septic tank problems and schedule an inspection. Visit the website to learn more about their services.