There’s nothing like warm summer weather to bring out the best in BBQs, beach days, and, unfortunately, bad plumbing smells. If your home suddenly smells like sewage, it’s not just unpleasant… it’s a warning sign.
At DRC Plumbing and Sewer, we get more calls about foul sewer odors during summer than almost any other time of year. Here’s why it happens, what might be causing it, and, most importantly, what you can do about it.
Why Does Summer Make Sewer Smells Worse?
Heat intensifies smells. When temperatures rise, gases in your sewer system expand, making it easier for odors to escape into your home. Add in summer storms that stress the sewer system, and you’ve got a recipe for unpleasant surprises.
Common Causes of Sewer Odors (and How to Fix Them)
Dry Drain Traps
Every sink, shower, and floor drain has a U-shaped pipe (called a “P-trap” or “S-trap”) that holds water to block sewer gases. If a drain isn’t used often, like a basement floor drain or guest bathroom, the water evaporates, and odors rise right through.
Fix it: Run water in each drain for 15 – 30 seconds. For floor drains, slowly pour a gallon of water mixed with a few tablespoons of vegetable oil to help prevent evaporation.
Clogged or Dirty Vent Pipes
Plumbing vents allow gases to escape your home through the roof. If a vent gets clogged with debris, leaves, or even bird nests, it can force those gases back down into your home.
Fix it: This usually requires a pro. We can inspect your vent system and clear any obstructions safely.
Cracked Sewer Lines
If the smell is persistent and seems to come from the basement, crawlspace, or yard, you might have a leaking or cracked sewer line. This is a bigger issue and needs to be addressed quickly before it becomes a health hazard.
Fix it: Call us for a camera inspection. We’ll pinpoint the issue without digging up your yard unnecessarily.
Toilet Seal Problems
If your toilet wobbles, leaks around the base, or has a faint sewer smell nearby, the wax ring seal may have failed.
Fix it: This involves removing and reseating the toilet with a new wax ring. Our licensed plumbers can handle this quickly and cleanly.
Pro Tip: Check for Gurgling Sounds
If you hear gurgling from your toilet or sink drains, that may mean your system is venting improperly or has a partial blockage. Don’t ignore it; call before it turns into a backup!
Want to Keep Things Fresh? We Can Help.
Our team at DRC Plumbing and Sewer offers $99 Plumbing Inspection and Water Heater Flush specials this summer. We’ll check your traps, inspect for leaks, test your venting, and help eliminate smells before they ruin your summer.
Call Today to Schedule Your Inspection!
Don’t let sewer smells stink up your summer. Whether it’s a minor fix or a larger sewer line issue, DRC Plumbing and Sewer is here to help promptly, professionally, and without any unpleasant odors. Call (708) 203-7057 or schedule online at www.drcplumbingandsewer.com/free-estimate.