Why Is There a Sewer Smell in My Business?

A sudden sewer smell in your business can be alarming and unpleasant, especially for employees, customers, and clients. Not only is it an immediate turn-off, but it can also indicate underlying plumbing problems that need to be addressed quickly. Here, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of sewer odors in commercial buildings and what you can do to eliminate them.

1. Dried-Out P-Traps

P-traps are U-shaped pipes designed to hold a small amount of water, creating a barrier that prevents sewer gases from entering your building. If the P-traps dry out, the water seal is lost, allowing foul odors to travel through the pipes and into your space.

Common Causes of Dried-Out P-Traps:

• Infrequently Used Drains: Sinks, floor drains, or other fixtures that aren’t used regularly can have dried-out P-traps.
• HVAC Drain Lines: In some cases, P-traps connected to HVAC units can also dry out, leading to odors circulating through the air system.

Solution:

• Run water down the affected drains to refill the P-traps, creating a fresh seal against sewer gases. For rarely used drains, consider pouring water into them regularly or using a small amount of mineral oil to slow down evaporation.

2. Broken or Cracked P-Traps

If a P-trap is cracked or broken, the water seal can leak out, leading to sewer odors escaping into the building. This can occur due to age, poor installation, or corrosion.

Signs of a Broken P-Trap:

• Water Stains or Moisture: Look for water stains or dampness beneath sinks or around the area of a P-trap, as these are indicators of leaks.
• Persistent Odors: Even after running water through a drain, if odors persist, a broken P-trap could be the issue.

Solution:

• Have a licensed plumber inspect and replace any damaged P-traps to restore the water seal and eliminate odors. This may require a sewer camera inspection if p-trap is for a floor drain.

3. Open or Unsealed Clean-Outs

Clean-outs are access points designed for plumbers to clear blockages in the plumbing system. If a clean-out cap is missing, improperly sealed, or broken, sewer gases can escape through the opening, causing odors to spread throughout the building.

Common Causes of Open Clean-Outs:

• Maintenance Oversight: After plumbing maintenance or repairs, clean-out caps may not be properly reinstalled.
• Damage: Clean-out caps can be damaged by heavy foot traffic, equipment, or other impacts in commercial spaces.

Solution:

• Inspect clean-out access points to ensure all caps are securely fastened and in good condition. Replace damaged or missing caps promptly.

4. Poor Seals Around Toilets

The wax ring at the base of a toilet is designed to create an airtight seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. If this seal is compromised, sewer gases can leak from the base of the toilet.

Signs of a Broken Wax Ring:

• Odor Around Toilets: If you notice a sewer smell specifically near the base of a toilet, a damaged wax ring could be the cause.
• Water Around the Toilet Base: In some cases, you may see water seeping from the base of the toilet.

Solution:

• A plumber can replace the wax ring to create a new seal, stopping odors from escaping and preventing potential water damage.

5. Vent Pipe Blockages

Vent pipes are an essential part of the plumbing system, allowing sewer gases to exit safely through the roof of your building. If vent pipes become blocked, gases can be forced back into the building through the drains.

Common Causes of Vent Blockages:

• Debris: Leaves, bird nests, or other debris can obstruct vent pipes.
• Snow/Ice Build-Up: In colder climates, snow and ice can block vents, causing gases to back up.

Solution:

• Have a professional inspect the vent system to ensure it is clear of blockages. In colder areas, installing vent caps or shields can help prevent snow and debris from blocking vents.

6. Sewer Line Problems

In some cases, the issue may not be within the building’s plumbing system but with the main sewer line itself. A blockage, break, or other issue in the sewer line can cause sewer gases to back up into the building.

Signs of Sewer Line Problems:

• Widespread Odors: If the smell is present in multiple areas, it could indicate a sewer line issue.
• Slow Drains or Backups: Slow drainage or frequent backups in multiple fixtures often point to a problem in the main sewer line.

Solution:

• Contact a licensed plumber for a comprehensive sewer line inspection. This may involve a camera inspection to identify any blockages or breaks in the line.

Preventing Sewer Smells in Your Business

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine plumbing inspections and maintenance to ensure all components are functioning properly.
• Seal Checks: Have seals around toilets, clean-outs, and other fixtures inspected periodically to ensure they are airtight.
• Monitor Drain Usage: For infrequently used drains, set up a regular schedule to run water through them and maintain the P-trap seals.

By addressing these common causes, you can eliminate sewer odors and ensure a clean, welcoming environment for everyone in your business. If you continue to experience issues, it’s best to consult with a professional plumber to identify and resolve the problem effectively.

If you need assistance with plumbing repairs, inspections, or maintenance, our team is here to help! Contact us today to schedule a service.