If you’re outside near your septic tank and you smell something foul, there’s a good chance you’re not thinking, “What’s that smell?” Instead, you’re likely thinking, “What’s gone wrong?” There are several reasons why you might be dealing with septic odors either outside or inside your home. Here are some possible causes of septic odors:
- Overdue pumping – If your tank has become too full, you’ll likely smell it. Tanks need to be pumped regularly. The frequency depends on the size of the tank and how much water and waste they are processing.
- Items other than waste in tank – Your septic system is designed to process waste. However, this can be obstructed by inappropriate items being flushed or sent down the drain. This includes items such as:
- Feminine hygiene products
- Condoms
- Paints
- Medications
- Oils
- Gasoline or other automotive fluids
- Vent stack clog – The gases that build up in your septic tank are released in the vent stack, usually around your roof. If leaves or other debris clog the vent stack, the gases become trapped, causing the foul odor.
- Defective gasket or seal – You may smell foul odors near the bathroom if you have gaskets or pipes that are not sealed effectively. This often occurs at the base of the toilet. This problem can be easily fixed by a plumber.
No matter what is causing the odor, our team at Marion Pumper is happy to help. Give us a call and we’ll gladly come out to identify the problem and provide you with the solution you need.