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Ask a Portland Plumber: What’s Causing That Sewer Smell?

Sewage Odor Services in Portland, OR

Plumbing System Not Working as it Should

Are you experiencing a sewer smell in your Portland area home? This could mean any number of things about your current plumbing system, but it is a sign that something is not working as it should.

The first thing to be aware of is the possible threat of danger this causes to you and your family. While sewer smells are certainly unpleasant, they may also cause sickness and vomiting. The best course of action is to immediately contact an expert at [company_name] so they can quickly help you find and fix the root of the problem before it gets worse.

So, what is causing the sewer smell? The answer is: just about anything.

Your house is equipped with multiple water-based appliances: toilets, sinks, showers, etc., all of which have a trap to help keep used water on the move. A small amount of water must remain in these traps to help maintain the flow of organic matter. Often, particularly in older Portland area homes, these traps break down or dry out.

The sewer smell could certainly be an organic waste, but it could also be compounded food trapped in a disposal trap (as pictured).

Ways to Maintain or Repair Sewer Traps

  • Pour a liter of water into a trap once a month
  • Bring water to traps via a primer line
  • Tear up the floor for a completely invasive home project

Either way, this is most likely a messy job that is better accomplished with the expertise of a trained and professional journeyman plumber.

If you’re experiencing a sewer smell in your Portland area home, it’s best for your health and safety to immediately call the experts at [company_name].

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