Why Does My Sump Pump Smell Like Poop?

Sump pumps are an important part of any home, and they often work hard to keep our basements dry. But sometimes, they can start to smell a bit like poop. This can be a major nuisance, and it’s important to figure out why it’s happening so you can fix the problem.

In this guide, we will explore some common causes of sump pump smells, and how to eliminate them.

What Causes Your Sump Pump to Smell like Poop, and How to Fix It

There are a few different reasons why your sump pump might start to smell like poop. Here are some of the most common ones:

You have a sewage backup

If you have a sewage backup, it’s likely that your sump pump smells bad because it’s being used to pump out sewage. To fix this problem, you’ll need to have your sewage system repaired.

You have a clogged vent stack

This is a very common problem that occurs when your sump pump smells like poop. The vent stack is the pipe that goes from your sewer cleanout, to the roof of your house.

It allows air to enter the sewer system so that sewage can flow freely. When this pipe becomes clogged, it can cause all sorts of problems, including a vile smell coming from your sump pump.

The good news is that this is an easy problem to fix. Simply call a plumber, and have them clear the vent stack. Once it is cleared, the smell should go away immediately.

You have a clogged drain

A clogged drain can cause your sump pump to smell. If you have a clogged drain, you will need to clean it out. You can use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear the clog.

A build-up of sludge or debris in the pit

If there is a build-up of sludge or debris in the pit, it can start to cause your sump pump to smell like poop. This is because the sludge and debris can start to rot, which can then produce a bad smell.

The best way to fix this problem is to clean out the pit on a regular basis. You should also make sure that there is no standing water in the pit, as this can also cause problems.

A problem with the discharge pipe

Another common cause of horrible sump pump odors is a problem with the discharge pipe. If there is a blockage in the pipe, it can cause the water to back up and start to smell bad. To fix this problem, you will need to clear the blockage from the pipe.

A problem with the pump itself

If there is a problem with the pump itself, it can also cause your sump pump to smell like poop. This is because the pump might be leaking oil or other fluids. If this is the case, you will need to replace the pump.

Step By Step Guide on How to Get Rid of Horrible Sump Pump Odors

Now that we’ve explored some of the common causes of sump pump smells, let’s take a look at how you can get rid of them.

What you'll need:
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Towel or rags
  • Screwdriver (optional)
Step 1 - Check the discharge pipe

The first step is to check the discharge pipe. If this pipe is blocked, it could be causing a backup which would result in bad smells. To check the pipe, simply remove the cap, and shine a flashlight down the length of it.

If you see any blockages, you can try to clear them with a screwdriver or a plumber’s snake. If the blockage is severe, you may need to call a professional.

Step 2 - Clean the sump pit

The next step is to clean the sump pit itself. Start by removing any debris that may have accumulated in the pit.

If there is any standing water, you can siphon it out with a hose. Once the pit is empty, scrub the sides and bottom with a baking soda and water solution. Rinse the pit with clean water, and then dry it off with a towel or rag.

Step 3 - Freshen up with vinegar

To freshen up your sump pit and get rid of any lingering bad smells, pour a cup of white vinegar into the pit. Let it sit for a few hours, and then rinse it out with clean water.

Step 4 - Prevent future smells

The best way to prevent sump pump smells in the future is to keep your pit clean and free of debris. You should also pour a cup of vinegar into the pit every month or so to help keep it smelling fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the source of the rotten egg smell coming from my sump pump?

The source of the rotten egg smell is most likely a build-up of sludge or debris in the sump pump pit. This can cause the water to start to smell bad.

2

Why does my sump pump smell like sewer gas?

Sewer gas smells can be caused by a number of things, but the most common cause is a problem with the discharge pipe. Regular sewer gas smells can also be caused by a build-up of sludge or debris in the pit.

3

Why does my basement smell like poop?

If you have a sump pump in your basement, it may be the culprit. When a sump pump fails, sewage can back up into your home through the drain pipes. This backup can cause a foul smell to fill your basement.

So, there you have it. These are just a few possible explanations for why your sump pump might smell like poop. If you’re still unsure of the cause, or if the problem persists, be sure to contact a professional for help.