Reasons Your Toilet Smells Like Sewers & How To Fix It

A toilet that smells like sewers is not only unpleasant; it can also be an indication of underlying plumbing issues. Whether it’s a blocked toilet in Sydney, a dry P-trap or a more serious sewer line problem, identifying the root cause is crucial.

Practical Solutions for Smelly Bathroom Drains

This guide will help you understand why your bathroom might smell like sewage and provide practical solutions on how to get rid of smelly drains in the bathroom.

1. Blocked drains

   Blocked drains are one of the most common reasons for a sewage smell in the bathroom. Hair, soap scum and other debris can accumulate in the pipes, leading to blockages that trap water and waste, causing foul odours.Here’s how you can fix blocked drains:

   • Use a plunger — For minor clogs, use a plunger to dislodge the blockage.
   • Try chemical drain cleaners — If plunging doesn’t work, try a chemical drain cleaner. Make sure to follow the instructions to avoid damaging your pipes.
   • Seek professional help — For stubborn blockages, call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to clear the blockage safely and effectively.

2. Dry P-trap

   The P-trap is a U-shaped section of pipe found beneath your sink, shower or bathtub that traps water to create a seal against sewer gases. When this water evaporates, it can lead to foul smells escaping into your bathroom.

   Here’s how you can troubleshoot a dry P-trap issue:

   • Run water — Simply running water in your sink, shower or bathtub can refill the P-trap and stop the sewer gases from escaping.
   • Check for leaks — Ensure no leaks are causing the water in the P-trap to evaporate quickly. If you find any leaks, repair or seal them promptly.

3. Sewer line issues

   Problems with your main sewer line can cause sewage smells to overflow into your bathroom. These issues can be caused by tree roots infiltrating the sewer line, pipe corrosion or severe blockages.

   Here’s how you can fix sewer line problems:

   • Get a professional inspection — If you suspect a problem with your sewer line, contact a professional plumber immediately. They can perform a thorough inspection, often using cameras to identify the exact cause.
   • Make necessary repairs or replacements — Depending on the severity of the issue, the plumber may need to repair or replace sections of the sewer line.

4. Ventilation issues

   Proper ventilation is essential in preventing moisture and odour buildup, which can lead to sewage smells in your bathroom.

   Here’s how you can manage ventilation issues:

   • Install an exhaust fan — An exhaust fan can help remove moisture and odours from your bathroom. Make sure the fan is vented to the outside of your home rather than into the attic to effectively expel the damp air and prevent mould and mildew growth.
   • Open windows — If possible, open windows to let fresh air in to circulate and reduce moisture levels.

5. Toilet issues

   A toilet that smells like a sewer can caused by various factors, such as a broken seal, clogged pipes or a faulty wax ring.Here’s how to deal with toilet issues:

   • Check the wax ring — The wax ring seals the toilet’s base to the drain pipe. If it’s damaged or worn out, sewer gases can escape. Replacing the wax ring can resolve this issue.
   • Unblock the toilet — If your toilet is blocked, sewage smells can come back into your bathroom. You can use a plunger or a toilet auger to remove the obstruction. However, if the issue persists, it’s best to call a professional for assistance.
   • Inspect the toilet base — Ensure there are no cracks or leaks at the base of the toilet. Repair any damage to prevent sewer gases from escaping.

6. Bacterial growth

   Moisture and organic matter can create an ideal environment for bacterial growth, which can produce unpleasant odours. This is common in areas not regularly cleaned, such as the overflow hole in your sink.Here’s how you can prevent bacterial growth:

   • Ensure regular cleaning — Clean your bathroom regularly with a disinfectant, paying special attention to areas that can harbour odour-causing bacteria.
   • Clean the overflow hole — Use a small brush and disinfectant to clean the overflow hole in your sink, where bacteria can accumulate.

7. Sewer vent pipe blockage

   The sewer vent pipe allows sewer gases to escape from your home. If this pipe becomes blocked, the gases can be forced back into your bathroom, causing a bad smell.Here’s how to fix a sewer vent pipe blockage:

   • Inspect the vent pipe — Check the vent pipe for any visible blockages. This might require climbing onto your roof, so take necessary safety precautions.
   • Clear the blockage — If you find a blockage, you can try to clear it yourself if it’s accessible. However, it’s best to contact a professional plumber for more difficult blockages.

Refresh your bathroom with MPJ Plumbing Group

Dealing with a toilet that smells like sewers can be frustrating, but identifying the cause and taking the proper steps can help resolve the issue. If you’re unable to fix the problem on your own or are unsure about how to get rid of smelly drains in your bathroom, our professional plumbers at MPJ Plumbing Group can help!

Our team has the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix even the most stubborn plumbing problems. From declogging blocked toilets in Sydney and tackling blocked sewers to installing or repairing hot water systems, we can do it all. Contact us today if you have any questions about our services or to schedule an appointment.