There’s nothing quite like walking into your kitchen or bathroom and being hit with the unmistakable stench of sewage. If you’ve noticed a foul smell coming from your drains, toilets, or sinks, it’s not just unpleasant—it’s a sign that something in your plumbing system needs immediate attention.
At Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter, we help Southern California homeowners get to the bottom of mystery odors and restore fresh, clean air to their homes. Here’s what you need to know about sewer smells, what causes them, and how a professional plumber can help.
Common Causes of Sewer Smells in Residential Plumbing
Sewer gas odors aren’t just gross—they can be a warning sign of bigger plumbing issues. Here are some of the most common culprits:
1. Dry P-Traps
A P-trap is the curved section of pipe under your sink or drain that holds a small amount of water to block sewer gases from entering your home. If a fixture hasn’t been used in a while (like a guest bathroom or unused laundry sink), the water in the trap may evaporate—letting odors escape.
2. Clogged or Dirty Drains
Food particles, grease, hair, and soap scum can accumulate in drains, creating the perfect environment for bacteria. The result? Rotting debris and a rotten egg smell from sulfur-producing bacteria.
3. Cracked Sewer Lines
If you notice sewage smells outdoors or around your home’s foundation, the problem may lie deeper—like a broken or leaking sewer pipe. This can cause serious health hazards and should be addressed immediately by a licensed plumber.
4. Blocked or Damaged Vent Pipes
Plumbing vent pipes allow sewer gases to escape safely through the roof. If your vent is blocked by debris or damaged, pressure can build up and push odors back into your home through drains and toilets.
5. Loose or Damaged Seals
Toilets and floor drains rely on tight seals to keep sewer gases out. Over time, these seals can wear down or become loose—leading to leaks, odors, and water damage.
Why DIY Fixes Don’t Always Work
You might be tempted to mask the smell with air fresheners or pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain, but these quick fixes rarely solve the underlying issue. Sewer gas can contain harmful bacteria and methane, and prolonged exposure may cause headaches, nausea, or even more serious health concerns.
The safest option? Call a professional plumber who can diagnose the problem and apply the right solution.
How Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter Can Help
At Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter, our licensed plumbers use advanced diagnostic tools—including video camera inspections, smoke testing, and leak detection—to pinpoint the source of sewer odors.
Depending on what we find, our services may include:
- Flushing and cleaning clogged drains
- Sealing or replacing leaking toilet rings or gaskets
- Repairing or replacing cracked sewer lines
- Resealing dry traps or floor drains
- Clearing blockages from vent stacks or roof vents
We’ll also walk you through the root cause of the issue so you can prevent it from recurring.
Don’t Ignore That Smell—Fix It Fast
Sewer odors are more than just embarrassing—they’re a red flag that your plumbing system needs attention. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of water damage, mold, or expensive repairs down the line.
Call Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter at (909) 780-0887 today to schedule a plumbing inspection. We’ll track down the cause of the smell, fix it right the first time, and leave your home fresh and odor-free.
