Why Sewer Gas Smells in Your Home Should Never Be Ignored

Ever walked into your home and been hit by that unmistakable whiff of rotten eggs? That’s sewer gas, and it’s a problem you shouldn’t ignore. But how often do we think, “Ah, it’ll go away,” only to realise it’s sticking around for good?

The truth is, sewer gas smells in your home aren’t just unpleasant—they’re a signal that something’s seriously wrong with your plumbing. Whether it’s an issue with a dry P-trap or something deeper, letting it linger could expose you to health risks or even cause damage to your home. 

And if you’re already dealing with a few plumbing issues, like figuring out how to fix a leaking tap, that gas could be the least of your worries… or maybe the start of something worse.

Why should you never ignore sewer gas smells?

Because those smells could be toxic. Let’s explore what causes them, the potential risks to your health and home, and most importantly—how to deal with the issue before it turns into a costly disaster.

What Causes Sewer Gas Smells in Your Home?

Sewer gas is a combination of gases like hydrogen sulphide, methane, and ammonia. These form in your plumbing system as waste decomposes, and while they’re typically contained within the system, they can leak into your home when something goes wrong.

Here’s why you might be smelling sewer gas in your home:

1. Dry P-Trap

A P-trap is the U-shaped pipe under your sinks, showers, or toilets that holds water, preventing sewer gases from escaping. When the trap dries out—usually because a fixture hasn’t been used for a while—the gases have a free pass into your home.

2. Cracked or Leaky Pipes

Any leaks or cracks in your pipes can also allow sewer gas to escape. Old pipes are especially vulnerable to this kind of damage, but poor installation can be a culprit too.

3. Blocked Vent Pipes

Plumbing systems have vent pipes that direct gases out of your home, usually through the roof. If these become blocked, the gases have nowhere to go and may be forced back into your living space.

4. Sewer Line Issues

A damaged or broken sewer line outside your home can force gas back through the system, filling your house with the unmistakable odour of waste

Health Risks of Ignoring Sewer Gas Smells

Let’s get straight to the point: sewer gas smells aren’t just gross—they can be hazardous to your health. The gases produced by your plumbing system contain chemicals that can be toxic, especially in enclosed spaces like your home.

Potential health risks include:

• Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure to hydrogen sulphide can cause throat and lung irritation, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, or worse.
• Headaches and Fatigue: Methane gas can cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches when it builds up in your home. It also displaces oxygen, which could lead to suffocation in extreme cases.
• Explosion Risk: Methane is highly flammable. In a confined space, it only takes a spark to cause an explosion.

How to Get Rid of Sewer Gas Smells

If you’ve noticed that awful smell in your home, it’s time to act fast. Ignoring it won’t make it go away—and it certainly won’t fix the problem. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take right now to address the issue before it escalates.

Steps to Eliminate Sewer Gas Smell:

1. Check for a Dry P-Trap: If you’ve got a sink or drain that doesn’t get much use, pour water into the drain to refill the P-trap. You can also add a bit of mineral oil to slow down evaporation.
2. Inspect Pipes for Leaks: Take a good look under sinks and around exposed pipes for any signs of leaks or damage. If you spot something, it’s best to call in a plumber to fix the issue.
3. Clear Blocked Vent Pipes: If you suspect a blocked vent pipe, it’s time to climb onto the roof or call a professional to check for obstructions.
4. Fix a Leaking Tap: A leaking tap can put strain on your plumbing system, which may lead to pressure issues and sewer gas leaks. Learn how to fix a leaking tap to avoid additional problems.
5. Call in the Professionals: If the problem persists, you’ll want to bring in a licensed plumber who can assess and repair any deeper issues within your system. Sewer gas problems often point to bigger issues that DIY fixes just won’t cover.

Prevent Sewer Gas Smells from Returning

Now that you’ve dealt with the problem, what can you do to prevent it from coming back? Here’s how to keep your home sewer-gas-free moving forward:

• Run Water in Unused Drains: Pour water down drains and sinks that don’t get much action to keep the P-trap from drying out.
• Keep an Eye on Your Pipes: Regularly inspect exposed pipes for leaks or cracks, especially in older homes.
• Maintain Your Plumbing: Schedule regular plumbing check-ups to ensure your system is in top shape. Catching a small issue now can save you a lot of headaches (and smells) later.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait for the Smell to Get Worse!

Sewer gas smells in your home are a warning sign that something’s wrong with your plumbing, and ignoring them can lead to bigger problems—both for your health and your home. Whether it’s respiratory risks or damage to your property, acting fast can save you from a world of trouble.

Need help dealing with sewer gas or other plumbing issues? Reach out to Sewer Surgeon for expert advice and solutions tailored to your needs. 

Don’t let bad smells become big problems—protect your home and family today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes sewer gas smells?

Sewer gas smells are typically caused by issues with your plumbing, such as dry P-traps, leaky pipes, blocked vent pipes, or damaged sewer lines.

Is sewer gas dangerous?

Yes, sewer gas can be harmful to your health. It contains hydrogen sulphide, methane, and ammonia, which can cause respiratory issues, headaches, and even explosions in extreme cases.

How do I get rid of sewer gas smells in my home?

Start by checking for dry P-traps, leaky pipes, or blocked vent pipes. If the issue persists, contact a plumber for professional help.

Can a leaking tap cause sewer gas smells?

A leaking tap can contribute to plumbing issues that may lead to sewer gas leaks. Fixing a leaking tap promptly can help maintain proper system pressure and avoid further problems.