Sewer Gas Smell?

If you suddenly start smelling sewer gas in your home don't be alarmed, it may be an easy fix!

Every plumbing fixture in your home has a P-trap. It is usually a U shaped pipe that collects water every time you use one of your plumbing fixtures. The water in the P-trap creates a seal between your pipes and the fixtures blocking sewage gases from traveling up your drains.

Floor drains are the most frequent cause. Unless your floor drain has water flowing to it on a regular basis from your AC condensate, high efficiency furnace condensate, humidifier or dehumidifier drain lines, or water softener discharge lines, the water in the trap will dry out.

Another common culprit is infrequently used bathrooms. If the sink, toilet, shower or tub rarely get used the water in the P-traps will also evaporate.

Thankfully the fix is easy! Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains to fill the trap and keep odours from entering the house :).

If you are still having trouble with a sewer gas smell in your home, give us a call and we'll investigate for you. For all your plumbing, heating, or cooling needs you can reach us at (250) 832-5558 or (250) 675-3668.