At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Lancaster, we understand that indoor plumbing is a modern marvel, ensuring the effortless disposal of waste from our homes. However, this convenience isn't always a one-way street. When various issues arise, foul sewer odors can infiltrate your home through the pipes. Beyond being unpleasant, these odors can also pose health risks, making it crucial to address the situation promptly.

Rest assured, one of the most common causes of sewer odors in drains is also one of the simplest to remedy. These odors can seep into your living spaces if the water trap in a drain pipe dries up. Thankfully, solving this issue is as easy as running a little water.

Beneath any sink in your home, you'll find a u-shaped bend in the pipe. That's the water trap, and while you may hope to find your lost wedding ring there, its primary purpose is to maintain a constant water barrier, separating your home from the unsavory contents deeper within the pipe. If you haven't used a particular drain for an extended period, the water in the trap can evaporate, allowing sewer odors to permeate your home. A quick fix is running the water for a few seconds to refill the trap and then waiting to see if the odor dissipates. In the case of floor drains, you can pour a bucket of water slowly to achieve the same result.

If a dry water trap isn't the culprit, there's a possibility that a foul-smelling biofilm has formed inside the problem drain. This is more common in kitchen sinks or drains where food and other biological materials are regularly flushed down. To resolve this issue, you'll need to scrub the slimy buildup away, which can be easy or challenging depending on the specific pipe. If you're up for a DIY solution, remove the drain cover and clean the inside of the pipe with a long, flexible pipe brush. Deodorizing the pipe can also help; simply spray a 50/50 mixture of bleach and water down the drain to coat the inner pipe walls.

If these methods prove insufficient, it's time to call in a professional plumber for a more thorough drain cleaning.

However, the real problem arises when you detect the same sewer odor emanating from multiple drains. In cases where your home has been vacant for an extended period, try replenishing the water traps first. But if the traps are full, and the odor is pervasive, you likely have a more significant issue deeper within the sewer system. This could indicate a problem with your plumbing equipment or the local sewer authority's system. In such cases, it's wise to contact the utility provider to investigate the matter.

If the issue turns out to be on your end, a plumber will need to identify the source. A sewer camera inspection may provide answers, but in the worst-case scenario, it could involve digging in your yard or even your basement.

We understand that no one enjoys the prospect of major sewer repairs, but when your home starts to reek of a sewer, there's no time to waste. Contact your local plumbing experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Lancaster at (717) 210-5644 and get assistance right away!