Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - Sewer gas smell from sup pump hole

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Curious Homeowner
09-04-04, 03:10 PM
Hope I am in the right place.

There is a sewer gas smell coming out of the sump pump hole in the basement.

Any ideas?

Thank you!


Mike Swearingen
09-04-04, 10:47 PM
Does this sump pump drain into a sewer line without a trap?
If it does, add a trap.
If it drains into a dry sump, pour bleach into the sump hole.
Good Luck!
Mike

Curious Homeowner
09-05-04, 08:39 PM
Mike,

I really dont know if there is a trap in the line. Water travels from the sump pump hole (vertical) up about 7 feet. goes across ceiling and makes a exit about 2 foot underground. From there it runs across my lot to the manhole out in front (approx 10 feet underground)

The reason I know this, one time i put dye in the sump hole and watched at the manhole.

The smell is not too bad today. It comes and goes.

Thank you for the reply!


Mike Swearingen
09-06-04, 07:59 AM
If it has a vertical discharge, it should have a check valve above the pump.
If not, install one. That will help prevent sewer gas that apparently is getting back in from the manhole.
Some places have separate sewer and storm water drain systems, and some don't. Maybe your system is combined.
You also might try a little bleach water in the sump hole.
Good luck!
Mike

Curious Homeowner
09-12-04, 08:29 AM
Thanks!

Sorry for not getting back to you sooner.

Tried the bleach thing and it works but still trying to find out the source!

Curious Homeowner
09-19-04, 08:36 AM
Well the smell is still here. Looks like I need to get a plumber out to help me out with this situation.

Thanks for everything

Curious Homeowner
10-18-04, 06:34 AM
Sorry I havent got back. Several plumbers have told me to do this: I have watched the pit whenever any fixture is being used and there is no water stiring around . I am cleaning out the pit in the floor. There is all kinds of stuff down there. One fellow suggested a camera can be run through the pipe to see if there is a crack or break.