Weird sewage smell in basement?
by
Sam
I have a 2002-built brick home near Atlanta, Georgia. Just a few days ago I noticed a very strong smell (smelled sort of like a dead mouse or something) in my basement and upon further investigation it was coming from a small closet that has a sink and big pipe (which may be a sewage pump ejector, I'm not exactly sure) running from the upper floor to the ground. I have never noticed this smell before. I think it had rained the day that happened.
Again, today, the smell came back but it smells more like sewage. We do have a septic tank, and we had issues with it leaking into our lawn a few years ago and we got the entire tank replaced I believe.
Any tips? Is this smell dangerous (eg methane buildup) or is it harmless and disgusting?
Again, today, the smell came back but it smells more like sewage. We do have a septic tank, and we had issues with it leaking into our lawn a few years ago and we got the entire tank replaced I believe.
Any tips? Is this smell dangerous (eg methane buildup) or is it harmless and disgusting?
2 answers
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Well it is sewage & it sounds like the P-Trap on the sink has dried up - run some water in it & see if that stops it. When was the last time you had your septic system checked / cleaned - if never I would suggest you get it pumped & then go with their recommendation for how often & care (generally every 3-5 depending on use, size, etc...
SLS Construction & Building Solutions LLC
on May 22, 2013
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I agree with SLS more than likely dry p trap. I would also check the sewage pump, they are bad about burning up. They usually have a manual over ride switch or temp switch and sometimes have a reset button. Start with the simple stuff like checking power to pump first then work your way to more difficult stuff to try and save some money. Good Luck
Humphries Homes
on May 22, 2013
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