Septic Tank Odor

Odor should not be present in a properly functioning septic tank system.  However, there are many problems that can lead to a noticeable smell if your system is not adequately maintained.

Causes of Septic Odor

There are several common causes for septic tank odor.  A typical reason for an unpleasant smell within the home is a blocked plumbing vent.   When plumbing vents are obstructed for one reason or another (birds, debris, etc), the plumbing traps can become dry causing an odor which backs up into the home.  Clearing the blockage will generally solve the problem.  You can clear the vents yourself or call al local professional to help you with those hard to reach areas such as roof exits.

Cold weather may also be the cause of septic related odors within the home.  In cold weather where frost or ice is present, the plumbing vent can become blocked. This blockage can push sewer gases back up through the home's drainage system and into the living area.

Surface runoff and ground water can also cause septic system odor. This typically occurs during periods with high amounts of rainfall and can cause odor to occur both inside and outside of the home.   The system's drainage field can become over-saturated and be unable to adequately process it's typical sewage load. The best way to resolve this issue is to provide an intercept drain to take care of the excess water which will help to prevent too much water from backing up and causing an odor.

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