Why Does My Drains Smell of Sewage?

A foul sewage smell coming from your drains can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience. Not only is it unpleasant to smell, but it can also be a sign of a more serious problem. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a sewage smell in your drains and what you can do to eliminate it.

1. Sewer Gas: One of the most common causes of a sewage smell in your drains is sewer gas. Sewer gas is a mixture of gases that are produced by the breakdown of waste in your sewer system. These gases can include hydrogen sulfide, which has a strong rotten egg smell, as well as methane and carbon dioxide. This gas can enter your home through openings in the floor, such as drains, toilets, and floor drains.
2. Clogged Drains: Another common cause of a sewage smell in your drains is clogged drains. When your drains are clogged, waste can build up and begin to rot, creating a foul smell. Common causes of clogged drains include hair, grease, and food particles. To prevent clogs, you should avoid disposing of grease and food particles down your drains and regularly clean and maintain your drains.
3. Dry P-Traps: A dry P-trap is another common cause of a sewage smell in your drains. A P-trap is a plumbing device that is designed to prevent sewer gas from escaping through your drains. The P-trap is filled with water, which acts as a barrier to the sewer gas. If the P-trap dries out, the sewer gas can escape, creating a foul smell. To prevent this from happening, make sure that the water in the P-trap is always at the appropriate level.
4. Broken or Disconnected Vent Pipe: A broken or disconnected vent pipe can also cause a sewage smell in your drains. A vent pipe is a pipe that is designed to allow air into your sewer system. This air helps to prevent the sewer gas from building up and escaping through your drains. If the vent pipe is broken or disconnected, the sewer gas can escape, creating a foul smell. It is important to have a professional check and repair any broken or disconnected vent pipes.
5. Cracked or Broken Sewer Pipe: A cracked or broken sewer pipe can also cause a sewage smell in your drains. A cracked or broken sewer pipe can allow waste and sewage to escape, creating a foul smell. If you suspect that you have a cracked or broken sewer pipe, it is important to have a professional plumber inspect and repair it as soon as possible.
6. Septic Tank: A septic tank that is not functioning properly can also cause a sewage smell in your drains. A septic tank is a large container that is designed to store and treat waste. If the septic tank is not functioning properly, the waste can begin to rot, creating a foul smell. Regularly maintenance of septic tank is important to prevent this.
7. Drainage: A poor drainage system can also cause a sewage smell in your drains. If the water is not flowing properly and getting stuck in certain areas, it can lead to the formation of bad smell. It is important to have your drainage system inspected by a professional to ensure that it is functioning properly.
8. Mould: Mould can also cause a sewage smell in your drains. Mould is a type of fungus that can grow in damp areas, such as your bathroom or kitchen. If the mould is growing in or around your drains, it can create a foul smell. To prevent mould growth, it is important to keep your bathroom and kitchen well-ventilated and to regularly clean and maintain.