Why Am I Experiencing Sewer Smells From The Shower Drain?

Even though the drains and pipes around your bathrooms lead into your home’s sewer lines, you shouldn’t be experiencing any foul smells. If you notice any pungent sewer-like smells coming from your home’s shower drains, then there might be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

As professional plumbers in Portland, Oregon, there is no clogged drain nor a repiping job that is too complicated for Roth Home. Within minutes of inspecting your home’s plumbing or drains, we will be able to determine the cause of your plumbing issues and provide solutions.

Why Does My Shower Drain Smell Like a Sewer?

If a homeowner is experiencing a sewage smell coming from their shower drains, there could be several potential reasons for this issue. Here are a few common causes to consider:

Dry P-trap: The P-trap is a U-shaped pipe located beneath sinks, showers, and other plumbing fixtures. It traps a small amount of water, creating a seal that prevents sewer gasses from entering the living space. If a shower drain is not used frequently, the water in the P-trap can evaporate, breaking the seal and allowing sewage odors to escape.

Blocked or Damaged Vent Pipe: Plumbing systems often include vent pipes that extend from the drainage system to the roof. These vent pipes allow air to flow and equalize pressure in the drains, preventing odors. If the vent pipe is blocked by debris, a bird’s nest, or other obstructions, it can disrupt the proper ventilation and result in sewage smells.

Clogged or Partially Blocked Drainage System: Over time, debris, hair, soap scum, and other materials can accumulate in drains and pipes, impeding the proper flow of wastewater.

Broken or Damaged Sewer Pipe: If there is a crack, hole, or joint separation in the sewer line, it can allow odors to escape into the surrounding soil and eventually enter the home through the drains.

Sewer Line Ventilation Issues: In some cases, a lack of proper ventilation in the sewer line can cause odors to seep into the home. This can occur if the ventilation system is not adequately designed or if there are blockages or restrictions in the vent pipes.

Unfortunately, these issues aren’t always apparent without an inspection by a trusted plumber. Once one of Roth’s professionals thoroughly inspects the source of your plumbing problems, we will be able to provide accurate solutions.

Solutions For Sewer Smells In Your Drains

Some answers to the foul smell coming from your bathroom drains involve adding a bit of water to create a seal within a dry P-trap. Others require the help of a plumber who can carefully inspect and treat your problem with ease. To resolve any of the above issues involving your shower drain, here’s how our plumbers might approach them:

 

• Blocked or Damaged Vent Pipe:
  • Inspect and clear any blockages in the vent pipe.
  • Repair or replace damaged sections of the vent pipe if necessary.
• Clogged or Partially Blocked Drainage System:
  • Use drain snakes or hydro-jetting to clear the blockage.
  • Consider professional drain cleaning services if the clog persists.
• Broken or Damaged Sewer Pipe:
  • Repair or replace the damaged section of the sewer pipe.
  • Consult a professional plumber for an accurate assessment and appropriate repair solution.
• Sewer Line Ventilation Issues:
  • Evaluate the ventilation system and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
  • Ensure there are no blockages or restrictions in the vent pipes.

Hydro Jetting For Shower Drains

At Roth, our plumbers are thoroughly trained, certified, and insured to clear or repair your drains. If you think you’re experiencing a major clog or other problem with your shower drains, you must address it immediately. Waiting to resolve foul odors emitting from your drains could make any underlying drain or plumbing issues even worse.

If you require our hydro jetting or excavation services, please contact us now.