There’s nothing more frustrating than a mysterious foul smell creeping through your home. A sewer odor in house is not just unpleasant—it can indicate a bigger plumbing or drainage issue that needs immediate attention. Homeowners in Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx often experience this problem, especially in older properties or homes with complex plumbing systems.
In this blog, we’ll break down what causes sewer gas odor in homes, how to identify its source, and—most importantly—how to get rid of sewer odor in house for good.
What Causes Sewer Odor in a House?
A sewer odor inside your home can stem from various sources, and understanding the root cause is crucial for finding a lasting solution.
1. Dry or Broken P-Traps
The P-trap under your sinks, showers, and floor drains is designed to hold water and prevent sewer gas odor from entering the house. If these traps dry out due to infrequent use, they allow foul gases to escape.
2. Vent Stack Blockage
Your home’s plumbing system is vented to release sewer gas odor safely through the roof. A blocked vent stack (from leaves, bird nests, or ice) can force gases back into your home.
3. Cracked or Damaged Sewer Lines
In older homes across Queens, Brooklyn, and The Bronx, deteriorating sewer lines can cause leaks and allow sewer odor to escape inside walls or under floors.
4. Clogged Drains or Biofilm Buildup
A clogged drain or organic buildup (biofilm) can emit a sewer gas odor from the shower drain, sinks, or tubs. This is especially common in humid spaces like bathrooms and basements.
Sewer Odor from Shower Drain: What to Look For
If the smell seems to come from your bathroom, chances are you’re dealing with a sewer odor from shower drain. Causes include:
- Dry P-trap due to infrequent use
- Clogs in the drain or pipes
- Faulty venting
- Cracked or deteriorated pipes under the shower
A quick fix is running water into the drain for a few minutes to refill the P-trap. If the odor persists, it may signal a deeper issue needing professional inspection.
Sewer Odor in Laundry Room and Washing Machine
Laundry rooms are another common source of sewer odor in house, especially when the odor is localized around your washing machine.
Causes:
- Mold or bacterial growth in the washer drum
- Clogged or improperly installed drain hose
- Dry or malfunctioning drain traps
- Ventilation issues
Whether it’s sewer odor in laundry room or sewer odor in washing machine, you can start by cleaning the washing machine drum and filter. Use white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to kill odor-causing bacteria. If that doesn’t work, you might need a plumber to inspect the drain line.
Health Concerns Related to Sewer Gas Odor in Home
Beyond the unpleasant smell, sewer gas odor in home can have health implications. Sewer gas is a mix of methane, hydrogen sulfide, and other toxic compounds. Prolonged exposure may lead to:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Eye and throat irritation
- In severe cases, long-term exposure to high concentrations can lead to respiratory issues or even explosions due to methane buildup.
How to Get Rid of Sewer Odor in House
1. Refill Water Traps
If a drain hasn’t been used in a while, pour a few cups of water down it to refill the P-trap. Add a tablespoon of mineral oil to slow evaporation.
2. Check for Leaks
Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and around floor drains for leaks or cracks. Replacing worn gaskets and tightening connections can help stop leaks.
3. Clean Drains and Vents
Use a plumber’s snake or a drain-cleaning brush to remove hair and debris from your shower and sink drains. Cleaning the vent stack may require going onto your roof, so consider hiring a professional.
4. Inspect Sewer Lines
If you suspect a cracked or damaged sewer line, especially in older homes in Long Island or Brooklyn, you’ll need a sewer camera inspection. Plumbers can identify hidden problems and recommend trenchless sewer repair if necessary.
5. Seal Gaps and Openings
Check for unsealed cleanout plugs or unused drain pipes and seal them properly to prevent sewer odor leaks.
DIY vs. Professional Help
While some issues like dry P-traps and minor clogs can be fixed with a DIY approach, more complex problems like broken sewer lines, vent blockages, or persistent sewer gas odor require the expertise of a licensed plumber.
If you’re located in Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, or Long Island, professional plumbers in your area can offer:
- Smoke testing to identify gas leaks
- Sewer camera inspections
- Vent stack cleaning
- Sewer line repairs or replacements
- Drain cleaning and maintenance services
Preventing Future Sewer Odor Problems
Regular maintenance goes a long way in preventing recurring sewer odor in house issues.
Here’s what you can do:
- Run water through all drains weekly
- Schedule annual plumbing inspections
- Install traps in all drain openings
- Clean washing machine and laundry drain regularly
- Avoid pouring grease or large food particles down kitchen drains
- Use bio-enzymatic cleaners monthly to maintain clean pipes
When Sewer Odor Becomes an Emergency
While most sewer gas odor in home issues are more annoying than dangerous, some situations warrant immediate action:
- Sudden, strong odor in multiple rooms
- Gurgling drains and slow flushing toilets (sign of main line blockage)
- Visible water or sewage backup
- Symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or headaches among household members
If you notice these signs, call an emergency plumber right away. Sewer gas is flammable and can be hazardous in enclosed spaces.
Final Thoughts: Sewer Odor in House is Fixable
Whether you’re dealing with a sewer odor from washing machine, a stinky shower drain, or a persistent smell in your laundry room, remember that you’re not alone. Homeowners across Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, and The Bronx regularly face these issues, and with the right steps—or the help of a trusted local plumber—you can breathe fresh air again.
Need Help in the New York Area?
If your home is affected by sewer gas odor or plumbing issues, don’t wait. Contact a local plumbing expert in your borough for a fast, reliable inspection and solution. Don’t let a sewer odor in house disrupt your comfort and peace of mind.
FAQs: Sewer Odor in House
Q: What is the most common cause of sewer odor in house?
A: The most common cause is a dry P-trap that no longer blocks sewer gas from entering the home.
Q: Is sewer gas dangerous?
A: In high concentrations, it can be toxic and flammable. Even small amounts can cause headaches or nausea over time.
Q: How do I get rid of sewer odor from washing machine?
A: Clean the drum and filter, flush the drain line, and ensure the hose is properly installed.
Q: Why do I only smell sewer odor from shower drain?
A: This could be due to a dry trap, partial clog, or venting issue specific to that fixture.
