Sewer Smell in the House? Start Here
Modern Perspective Plumbing, licensed plumbing contractor in Grover Beach, serving San Luis Obispo County
Run water for a minute at every drain you rarely use, including floor drains and guest showers. A dried-out trap is a common cause. If the smell stays or drains are slow or gurgling, the line or vent needs checking.
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What to do first
- Run water in unused sinks, tubs and floor drains to refill the traps.
- Check whether the smell is strongest in one room.
- Note any slow drains, gurgling or sewage backing up.
Call right away if
- Sewage is backing up into a tub, shower or floor drain
- Several fixtures are slow at the same time
- You aren't sure if the smell is sewer or gas. If it might be gas, leave and call your gas company from outside
We answer Monday–Friday 8AM–5PM. After hours, we take your details and call back first thing the next business morning, or Monday morning on weekends. No crew goes out overnight.
What usually causes it
- Dry trap. Water in the trap blocks sewer gas, and it can evaporate when a fixture isn't used.
- Toilet seal. A failed seal at the base of a toilet can let odor out.
- Vent problem. A blocked or damaged vent can pull water from traps and cause gurgling.
- Sewer line. A cracked or backed-up line can cause odor, and a camera shows where it is.
Coming out to look is free, and you get the price before any work starts. Learn more about our sewer camera inspection.
Common questions
Is a sewer smell dangerous?
Don't ignore it. Ventilate the room, and if anyone feels sick, get outside and get help. If it might be gas, leave and call your gas company.
Why does my vacation home smell like sewer?
Water in unused traps can evaporate during long absences. Running water at each fixture often solves it.