Hey everyone! My partner and I just moved into a basement that her dad renovated, and unfortunately, our new bedroom has the sump pump under the floor. We've started noticing a sewage smell coming from it. Is this smell something typical that might clear up with some running water, or does it indicate something more serious and potentially dangerous? I'm concerned about sleeping in this room with my pregnant partner if it turns out to be a health hazard.
3 Answers
It's usually not dangerous, but having a sewage smell is definitely unpleasant! If this is a new smell, I’d recommend checking any vents and traps in the area. If it’s been stinky for a while, it might be a sign that the plumbing was set up incorrectly.
Make sure there’s no open access between the sump and your room. If it’s not sealed, consider getting a cover and sealing it with caulk, like they do for radon sumps. That might help keep the smell at bay!
Have you checked if it's connected to the sewer? If it’s not sewer gas, a bit of bleach can often take care of the stink in your sump pump. Just be sure to use it carefully!