Wondering how to get rid of septic tank odor outside naturally? If you’ve noticed a foul smell near your home, it may be a clear sign your septic system needs attention.
A properly functioning septic tank should be odor-free, but issues such as leaking tanks, the buildup of gases like hydrogen sulfide and methane, or a problem in the leach field can create a toxic and gross smell.
Ignoring these issues could lead to costly repairs. Consult an expert in septic tank repairs to address the problem and restore a fresh, natural environment.
This blog post will let you know the simple and most effortless steps of removing this unpleasant odor naturally.
Why Does My Septic Smell Outside?
It can be concerning if you notice a septic smell outside your home. There could be several reasons, such as septic leaks, broken pipes, clogging due to using toilet paper, gas buildup, and many others.
Additionally, issues in the leach field may spread unpleasant odors to the surrounding areas, posing serious health hazards to your family, pets, and the environment.
That’s why performing a regular or scheduled maintenance inspection is essential. A well-maintained septic system is necessary for breathing in a positive environment.
Common Causes Of Septic Tank Odor Outside
Here are some common causes of septic tank odors from outside the house, such as in the yard, garden, or other places.
Clogged Drains Or Blocked Pipes: When drain pipes get clogged with debris, smelly gases waft upward and create an unpleasant odor in the yard or outside the house. Clearing these blockages helps reduce the smells.
Damaged Or Unsecured Manhole Lids: A damaged concrete lid missing its rubber seal may allow septic smells to escape. Make sure to have a secure lid with a cover so that weather stripping can help keep the odors inside, not outside.
Buildup Of Noxious Gases: Over time, toxic gasses like sewage and smelly gasses naturally build up in your septic system. If it’s not pumped after a long period. Such gases are exposed after a time, which causes odors. To prevent this, these gases require a carbon filter or regular upkeep.
Faulty Ventilation: Check your ventilation system in the tank. If the plumbing vent is too small, it will not allow windows to disperse odors effectively. To prevent it, ensure that adding a carbon filter and extending the vent pipe can enhance its effectiveness and reduce the smell.
Leaking Sump Pumps or Temporary Repairs: A leaking sump pump or temporary seal that hasn’t been appropriately replaced allows odors to escape. To maintain smooth functioning, perform a routine inspection.
How To Get Rid Of Septic Tank Odor Outside: Professional Vs. DIY
Removing the septic tank odor outside can be quickly done using DIY or natural methods or professional assistance.
Here are some steps to consider if you experience septic tank smells in your bathroom or outside your residence.
Clear Blockages In Drains Or Pipes
Coffee beans, toilet paper, baby wipes, grease, oil, and other substances clog most drains.
When such issues are not resolved on time, they create unpleasant smells inside and outside your house.
To unclog this, you can do it at home using tools or natural methods. Flush a pie snake or mixture of hot water and vinegar properly.
If a new septic system smells outside, clearing blockages will significantly help.
Seal Lids Securely
Regularly inspect your septic tank lid for any cracks or loose seals.
To secure the lid yourself, you can use weatherstripping or lag screws.
However, consider hiring a professional septic technician if you're uncomfortable with the task. They can ensure the rubber seal is tightened correctly and address any issues with leaking sump pumps.
This will help prevent unpleasant odors in your yard and ensure your septic system operates smoothly.
Use A Natural Odor-neutralizer
To maintain a natural balance, sprinkle the baking soda septic tank odor or yogurt near septic tank drains or smelly areas.
You can also utilize a septic tank odor neutralizer to break down solids such as sludge and scum to reduce unpleasant smells.
Install A Carbon Filter Or Extend Vent Pipes
Professionals should handle this method, as DIY attempts may pose health risks.
A qualified technician will:
Install a specialized carbon filter in your plumbing vent to reduce odors
Extend vent pipes if necessary for better air circulation
Ensure proper installation to prevent septic odors outside
Hiring professionals can improve odor control and maintain a safer environment around your property. This approach addresses septic smells at their source, providing a long-term solution to odor issues.
Maintain Proper Ventilation
Ventilation is essential to protect your septic or sewerage systems from sudden gas leakage. This can spread unpleasant odors throughout the house and cause several health and environmental issues.
Schedule A Full Tank Inspection
To ensure optimal septic tank function:
Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of your system, ideally weekly.
Use natural or chemical-free products to preserve the essential bacteria in the septic tank.
Hire a professional septic system technician if you cannot maintain the system or notice persistent issues.
Professional services can:
Unclog blockages
Identify and remove sources of odors
Perform thorough inspections
If you notice septic tank odors outside, address the issue promptly. Delaying action can lead to more severe problems and potentially costly repairs.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove Septic Smells?
The cost to remove septic smells can vary depending on the issue.
Basic fixes like clearing clogged drains or sealing a septic lid might cost $100 to $300.
If your septic tank smells in the yard, you could be looking at around $500 for professional repairs.
For more complex problems, like replacing components or addressing issues after your septic tank emptied and now smells, costs could climb to $1,000 or more.
Regular maintenance can help avoid expensive surprises.
Preventative Measures To Avoid Future Odors
To reduce future septic tank odors both inside and outside your home, consider implementing the following preventative measures:
Ensure to regularly or weekly pump your septic tank from gas and solids buildup.
Use baking soda to remove smells and maintain a balanced pH and bacteria.
Avoid flushing grease, oil, and non-biodegradable items directly into the toilet.
Avoid planting trees or trimming the trees near the septic tank to enhance proper ventilation and airflow.
Use a specialized bacteria treatment to reduce the breakdown effectively.
Schedule professional inspection and maintenance to catch the issues earlier and on-time services.
Conclusion
Removing septic tank odors outside your home can be achieved efficiently by following these methods.
If you cannot address clogs or backup odors on your own, consider hiring professional services. They will guide you through each step and help prevent future odor issues.
Addressing odor problems promptly is crucial for safeguarding human health and the environment.
Delaying action can lead to more severe consequences, so resolving these issues quickly and effectively is critical.
At Barnes Sewer & Septic, we provide services for carefully handling and resolving septic issues.
If you need any of our services, contact us at (765) 584-7295.
FAQs
Is it normal to smell your septic outside?
No, it's not normal for septic tank odors to be noticeable outside. If you detect septic smells outside, it indicates a potential issue with your system.
Ignoring this problem can lead to serious health risks and environmental hazards. Addressing the issue promptly is essential to ensure safety and prevent further complications.
Does baking soda help with the septic tank smell?
Yes, baking soda can help with septic tank smells. It is known for its ability to neutralize odors and maintain a balanced pH level in the septic tank, which is crucial for the bacteria that break down waste.
Sprinkling baking soda near the odored area or adding it to drains can help reduce unpleasant smells naturally.
However, while baking soda is beneficial for odor control and pH balance, it should not be relied upon as a solution for more serious septic issues, such as blockages or bacterial imbalances.
What absorbs bad smells outside?
The most effective methods to avoid bad smells outside your tank are using natural methods, activation of charcoal, and soil treatment for a fresh outdoor environment.
Kommentare