The Reason Your House Smells Like Sewer When it Rains

Rain has an annoying quality - it will cause sewer problems inside your house. Here are a few of the common causes:

1. Full Septic Tank
   When a septic tank is completely filled, it will emit a not-so-good smell, mostly prevalent during the rainy season when water saturates the ground, which leads to its inability to hold waste properly.
2. Blocked Sewer Vents
   The plumbing systems have sewer vents to balance the air pressure within the plumbing systems. When these vents are blocked, fumes back up into your house and produce a very strong sewer smell.
3. Damaged Sewer Pipes
   When rain washes in through cracked or broken sewer pipes, it creates pressure differentials that push sewer gases into your home.
4. Dry P-Traps
   P-traps in sinks and floor drains are preventive measures against sewer gases entering the house. Dryness or malfunctioning will allow the gases to escape.
5. Unfavorable Drainage System
   The gutter and faulty drainage systems will cause water to stagnate, which may mix with the sewage waste to give foul odors.

It goes without saying that effective resolution only comes from identifying the cause of the problem.

You have a sewer smell when it rains at your house; that's where a professional plumber can find and fix the problem. Here are the indicators that it is time to call a San Diego leak plumber for you:

• Continuous sewer smell
• Slow draining kitchen sinks or bathtubs
• Strange strains made by pipes
• Visible water or damp spots
• Increase in pest activity around the drains

Ignoring these indications can lead to costly damages and health hazards.

1. Inspect and Clear Sewer Vents
   The gas may be confined in a blocked sewer vent. Clean the vent pipes on your roof or have a professional come and remove blockages.
   
   
2. Check and Refill P-Traps
   There are P-traps under all drains. They are to be filled with water to avert the seeping of sewer gases from the system into the house. For less-used drains, pour water into them now and then.
   
   
3. Repair Broken Pipes
   A San Diego leak plumber can come to your home to inspect for cracks and/or leaks in the piping system that may allow sewer gas to seep into the home so as to carry out repairs.
   
   
4. Pump the Septic Tank
   For homes with septic systems, regular service appointments should be kept to prevent overflowing and stinking.
   
   
5. Improve Drainage
   Drainage should be remedied around the house; otherwise, rainwater will pool and seep into sewer lines.

Preventive maintenance can help to keep problems away from your premises again. This is how you maintain your home fresh from smells:

1. Schedule Regular Inspections

   Hire a water leak San Diego specialist for an examination of your plumbing system with yearly inspections to guard against future problems.

2. Keep Drains Clean

   Keep drains clear of debris by installing drain strainers and clean them regularly, especially when they begin to block.

3. Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures

   Old plumbing fixtures are common sources of leaks and odors. Upgrading to modern fixtures improves efficiency and reduces risk.

4. Handle Rainwater Drainage

   Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your foundation to reduce sewer issues during heavy rain.

5. Monitor Water Pressure

   Maintain safe water pressure to avoid pipe damage. Install a pressure regulator if necessary to keep pressure levels within safe limits.

For all reliable solutions, trust in EZ Plumbing USA. We provide:

• Skills: Our team is well versed in expertise in tackling issues affecting sewer and water leaks.
• Timely service: Emergencies are often our utmost priority, and response time is due within due periods.
• Affordable Rates: The best quality plumbing services are here at the least competitive prices.

The smell of sewage inside your house during the rainy season does not just annoy you, but also indicates that some plumbing issues may be lying underneath. Don't ignore the sign. Be it a blocked vent, cracked pipe, or septic tank problem, a San Diego leak plumber has the remedy. Call us today at EZ Plumbing USA, and enjoy efficient and long-lasting solutions to the comfort in your home!

Q1. Why does my house stink like a sewer only during rains?

When it rains, the soil becomes saturated, reducing its absorption capacity and creating pressure in the sewer system. This pressure forces sewer gases into your house, causing the smell.

Q2. Do sewer smells have side effects?

Yes, prolonged exposure to sewer gas can lead to symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and airway irritation. It is important to address the issue promptly to avoid health risks.

Q3. How much does it cost to fix a sewage leak?

The cost varies depending on the complexity of the issue. Minor fixes, such as vent cleaning, are generally affordable, while major repairs, such as pipe replacements, can be more expensive.

Q4. Can I fix the sewer smell myself?

Minor issues, such as filling dry P-traps, can often be addressed as a DIY project. However, problems like cracked pipes or blocked vents require professional assistance for proper resolution.

Q5. What is a good frequency to schedule plumbing inspections?

It is recommended to schedule annual plumbing inspections with a water leak expert in San Diego to detect and address potential problems early, ensuring the integrity of your plumbing system.

Wondering if a damaged sewer pipe could be causing the odor? Learn about the telltale signs of a damaged sewer pipe and how to address the issue.