Get Rid of Sewer Smell in My Columbia Home

Nothing disrupts the comfort of your home faster than a sudden sewer smell in house plumbing. Whether it comes from the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry area, that foul odor isn’t just unpleasant. It can signal a plumbing issue that needs attention. Homeowners in Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, Chapin, and West Columbia often deal with this type of issue, especially in older homes or during seasonal shifts in humidity and water usage.

These areas are known for a mix of older homes, heavy rainfall, and clay-rich soil, all of which can contribute to shifting pipes, aging infrastructure, and pressure-related plumbing problems. Sewer odors are often the first sign that something deeper needs attention.

Let’s take a closer look at what causes a sewer smell in a house and how to get rid of it for good.

What Causes a Sewer Smell in a House?

A sewer smell in house plumbing can come from several sources, some simple and others more serious. Understanding the cause is the first step toward finding a lasting solution.

Dry or Faulty P-Traps

A common cause of drain odor is a dry P-trap. These curved sections of pipe are designed to hold water, creating a seal that blocks sewer gases from rising into your home. If a fixture hasn’t been used in a while, that water can evaporate, allowing odors to escape.

Clogged Vent Pipes

Vent pipes allow sewer gases to flow safely out through the roof. If those pipes become clogged with leaves, debris, or even nests, pressure builds in the plumbing system and gases can be forced back into the house.

Cracked or Damaged Drain Lines

When a drain line is cracked, especially beneath the foundation or behind a wall, sewer gases can seep out before reaching the main line. These leaks are often invisible, but the smell is hard to ignore.

Loose or Improperly Sealed Toilet

Even a small gap at the base of your toilet or around the wax ring can let sewer gases escape. If the toilet rocks or wasn’t seated correctly during installation, it may not be sealed properly.

Biofilm Buildup in Sink Drains

Bacteria, grease, and grime can accumulate on the inside of bathroom or kitchen drains. This biofilm not only smells bad but can be a breeding ground for more bacteria if left untreated.

How to Get Rid of the Sewer Smell in My House

Once you’ve identified the likely cause, it’s time to take action. Some fixes are simple enough for a homeowner to handle. Others require professional tools and expertise.

Run Water to Refill Dry Traps

If the smell comes from a rarely used shower, tub, or laundry drain, try running water for 30 seconds to refill the trap. This often reseals the pipe and blocks odors from rising.

Use a Drain Odor Cleaner

There are safe, enzyme-based drain odor cleaners available that can help remove biofilm buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals, which may damage pipes or harm septic systems. For deep or recurring odors, professional drain cleaning is a better option. A trained technician can remove years of buildup that store-bought cleaners can’t touch, helping prevent future odors and ensuring your system runs smoothly long-term.

Clear Roof Vents or Call a Pro

Clearing a blocked vent pipe may involve getting on the roof. If you’re not comfortable doing that, a plumber can inspect the vent with a camera or snake tool and remove the obstruction safely.

Check the Toilet Seals and Tighten as Needed

If you suspect the toilet isn’t sealed correctly, you can try gently rocking it to check for movement. Replacing the wax ring or resetting the toilet may stop sewer gases from leaking into the room.

Inspect for Leaks with Video Technology

Cracked or damaged pipes hidden in walls or underground are best diagnosed with video inspection tools. Cassell Bros offers non-invasive pipe video inspection services that help pinpoint the problem fast.

Contact Cassell for Professional Drain Cleaning

Sometimes, no amount of DIY drain cleaning will stop the smell, especially if the issue is deeper in the line. Cassell Bros offers professional drain cleaning for Columbia-area homes, serving Lexington, Chapin, Irmo, and West Columbia. Our team uses advanced plumbing technology to remove buildup, clean lines safely, and locate the root of the problem without unnecessary damage to your home.

We tailor each service to your home’s age, layout, and plumbing history. Whether you’re dealing with a recurring odor, a mystery blockage, or simply want peace of mind, our drain experts take the time to get it done right the first time.

Sewer odors don’t belong in your home. Whether it’s a simple issue like a dry trap or a more complex problem with hidden drain damage, Cassell Bros Plumbing can help you get answers and restore fresh air and peace of mind. Schedule your drain cleaning service today and let our team keep your home smelling, and running, like it should.