Questions, Answers, and Everything Else About Plumbing

Although you may not be able to see it, your home's sewer system is hard at work every day, transporting wastewater and sewage away from your property. A well-functioning sewer system is essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable home, but unfortunately, things can sometimes go wrong.

A common recurring plumbing problem homeowners face is a sewer smell that permeates the house. Here are four common causes of sewer smell in your home and how your plumber can help you get rid of it.

1. Dry P-traps

The P-trap is a crucial part of your home's plumbing system and is responsible for preventing sewer gases from entering your home. The P-trap is typically filled with water, but it can no longer do its job properly if it dries out. This can happen if you have a leaky faucet or if the water in the trap evaporates for some reason. To fix this problem, your residential plumbing contractor will simply need to refill the P-trap with water.

2. Broken Vent Stack

The vent stack is another important part of your home's plumbing system and helps regulate air pressure in the sewer pipes. If you've ever noticed a sewer smell in your house, it could be due to a broken vent stack. The vent stack is a pipe that allows gas and odors to escape from the sewer system. Gas and odors can seep into your home through the drain pipes if the stack is broken. A professional plumber can identify the problem and repair the vent stack to restore fresh air to your home. 

3. Cracks in the Sewer Line

One typical cause of sewer smell is cracks in the sewer line. These cracks can allow sewage to escape and seep into your home, leading to that foul smell. These cracks can be caused by tree roots or other objects that have made their way into the pipes. Generally, your plumber can repair the cracks without having to replace the entire sewer line.

4. Improperly Installed Plumbing Fixtures

Bad smells emanating from your plumbing fixtures are more than just an inconvenience—they could be indicative of a serious problem. In many cases, the cause of the smell is improper installation of the fixtures. Over time, the misaligned fixture can cause leaks, allowing sewer gases to escape into your home.

The misalignment can also cause sewage and waste buildup, resulting in odors lingering around your home. If you're experiencing plumbing smells, it's important to have a professional plumber inspect individual plumbing fixtures and make the necessary repairs.

It's not a good feeling when you walk into your house and are hit with an intense sewer smell. Not only is the smell unpleasant, but it can also be dangerous. Take immediate action by contacting plumbing services to restore fresh air to your home. 

For more information, contact a local company like Sunwest All Service.