When there’s a bad smell inside the home, the trash and bathroom are at the top of the investigation list. When it’s more of a sewage smell and found near drains or plumbing fixtures, you may be able to narrow the problem down to the septic system. In addition to being unpleasant, these fumes can be dangerous because they contain methane and carbon dioxide. Here are four potential causes of these odors so you can have a professional address the issue right away.

4 Reasons Your Home Has a Sewage Odor

1. Downdrafts

When the season changes, decreasing temperatures can sometimes create downdrafts. These ventilation blockages prevent sewage scents from leaving the home, forcing them to infiltrate the drains and circulate into the house instead. The problem may be temporary, but if it persists, enlist a professional to check out your vents.

2. The Septic Tank Is Full

If the septic tank’s at capacity, it may cause gurgling noises in the drains as air and wastewater flow upward. You might notice the toilets and washing machine are running slowly, too, because they can’t drain properly due to the high levels of greywater in the pipes.

Once the tank is full, odors from waste will begin to seep back up into the home. Have a technician empty the septic system to mitigate this issue. Most homes need their tank emptied every one or two years, but see the manufacturer’s manual for their recommendation.

3. Large Amounts of Rain

Many homeowners notice bad smells after major rains. If your area receives a lot of precipitation, the water can cause surface runoff that makes septic systems overflow. When this occurs, gases are forced up through the pipes and into the drains.

Avoid this issue by having a septic system team install a pipe to funnel groundwater to a high-drainage area of the yard. This simple fix will mitigate overflow and limit odors in the house.

4. Dry Traps

Pipes that lead to a septic tank feature seals called traps that need water to prevent gas and odors from rising. Drains that aren’t frequently used, such as a guest bathroom or laundry tub, may dry out, leaving the trap free for air to move through. Pour water down the drains every week to ensure they’re regularly wet.

Homeowners concerned about septic system smells should contact Baldwin Septic Tanks LLC in Seminole, AL. The locally owned and operated company has been in business for 45 years, ensuring home wastewater systems are operating efficiently. Call the experts at (251) 946-3250 or visit the website for more information on their services, such as 24/7 emergency repairs, septic field line cleaning, and septic tank pumping.