What to Do About Septic Smells in Your Home

Nov 09, 2023

What to Do About Septic Smells in Your Home

There are few things more unpleasant than smelling septic gas in your home. A properly functioning septic system should be odor-free, so if you notice septic smells wafting into your home or outside near the leach field, it’s a sign there’s a problem. In high concentrations, septic smells can be toxic and pose health risks. The septic smells can be in the house, near the septic tank, near the leach field, or in the yard. In this blog post, Septic Blue of Charlotte looks into the common causes of septic smells in homes and the remedies. If you’re looking for a professional septic service, reach out to Septic Blue of Charlotte.

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Bret Brooks arrived on time, was completely professional and courteous.  I needed my septic tank pumped and a riser installed.…

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Common Causes of Septic Smells in Homes

  • Full septic tank
  • Vent stack clog
  • Defective gaskets and seals
  • Overflowing septic tank
  • Blocked drain line

Remedies for Septic Smells in the Home

  • Pump Your Septic Tank Regularly

Regular septic tank pumping is essential to prevent the buildup of solids and scum in your tank, which can lead to odors escaping into your home. The frequency of pumping depends on the size of your household and the tank's capacity, but a general guideline is every 2-5 years. Keeping your septic tank well-maintained will reduce the likelihood of foul odors seeping into your living space. Always hire an experienced septic company to carry out septic tank pumping and keep your septic system in tip-top shape.

  • Clean Your Drains Regularly

Clogged drains can contribute to septic odors. It's important to avoid flushing or draining items that can obstruct your plumbing, such as paper towels, grease, or non-biodegradable materials. In addition, regular drain cleaning with appropriate products can help prevent blockages and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

  • Inspect Your Septic Tank on a Regular Basis

Routine inspections of your septic tank can help you catch any issues early and schedule septic tank repair before things get out of hand. Look for signs of damage, leaks, or overflowing wastewater. A professional inspection every 3-5 years can be helpful in identifying and addressing potential problems before they become major concerns.

  • Ensure the Risers and Manholes Are Securely Covered

The access points to your septic tank, such as risers and manholes, should be securely covered to prevent odors from escaping into your home. If these openings are not sealed properly, they can be a source of foul smells. Check these covers from time to time to make sure they are in good condition and well-sealed. Replace or repair any damaged covers promptly to maintain a proper seal.

  • Clean Vent Stacks

Vent stacks allow gases from your septic system to escape into the atmosphere, which is essential for its proper functioning. However, these vents can become clogged with debris, birds' nests, or other obstructions, leading to septic odors backing up into your home. Regularly inspect and clean these vents to ensure they remain free from blockages.

Need Reliable Septic Service? Work With a Septic Company You Can Trust

Septic smells in your home should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further and costly problems. When you’re in need of fast, reliable, and budget-friendly septic services, you can trust the team at Septic Blue of Charlotte to get the job done right. Whether you need septic tank installation or septic tank repair, the septic experts at Septic Blue of Charlotte are here to help.