If your water smells like sewage, it’s a sign that something is wrong. Water that smells foul can indicate a serious issue in your plumbing, septic, or municipal water system. At First and Last Restoration, we understand how unsettling and dangerous this situation can be. This guide will explain the most common causes, potential health risks, and what you should do if your water has a sewage-like odor.
Is It Really the Water or Just the Drain?
Before assuming the smell is coming from your water supply, determine if it’s actually the drain. Fill a glass with water and move away from the sink. If the smell disappears, the problem is likely with the drain, not the water. But if the odor is still present in the glass, you’re dealing with contaminated water.
This simple test can help you identify where the problem lies and avoid unnecessary plumbing work.
Causes of Sewage Smell in Tap Water
There are several possible reasons your water might smell like sewage. Some are minor and easy to fix, while others may require professional help from a water restoration expert.
Bacteria in the Drain or Faucet
One of the most common reasons water smells like sewage is the presence of bacteria in the drain or around the faucet aerator. Organic material builds up in sink drains and, over time, creates a breeding ground for bacteria. As bacteria grow, they produce gases that smell like rotten eggs or sewage.
You can try cleaning the faucet aerator and pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water. If the smell persists, further investigation is needed.
Contaminated Water Heater
Your water heater may also be the source of the odor, particularly if it only occurs with hot water. The anode rod inside the tank can react with naturally occurring sulfur bacteria, creating a rotten egg or sewage smell.
Replacing the anode rod or flushing the water heater may resolve the issue. In some cases, treating the water heater with hydrogen peroxide can kill the bacteria.
Sulfur Bacteria in the Well Water
If you’re using a private well, the smell may be due to sulfur-reducing bacteria. These bacteria thrive in low-oxygen environments and can produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which has a sewage or rotten egg odor.
Shock chlorination of the well or installing a filtration system can help eliminate the bacteria and restore your water quality.
Sewer Line or Septic Contamination
In more severe cases, the smell could indicate contamination of your water supply by sewage from a broken sewer line or failing septic system. If wastewater is leaking into your water supply, this poses serious health risks and requires immediate professional attention.
Look for other signs such as slow drains, gurgling toilets, or standing water in your yard. If you suspect this type of contamination, call First and Last Restoration immediately for an inspection and remediation.
Municipal Water Supply Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t inside your home but with the municipal water system. Maintenance work, pipe corrosion, or cross-contamination between sewer and water lines can lead to foul-smelling water. If your neighbors are experiencing the same issue, contact your local water authority to report the problem.
In the meantime, avoid drinking or cooking with the water until it’s declared safe.
Health Risks of Sewage-Contaminated Water
Drinking or using water that smells like sewage can expose you to harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Contaminated water can lead to illnesses such as:
Even exposure to these contaminants through skin contact or inhalation during a hot shower can be risky, especially for young children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems.
That’s why it’s crucial to act fast if you detect a sewage smell in your water.
How to Get Rid of Sewage Smell in Your Water
Solving this issue depends on the underlying cause. Here are practical steps to eliminate sewage odors from your water:
Step 1: Identify the Source
Test both hot and cold water in multiple locations in your home. Note whether the smell is coming from the water itself or the drains.
Step 2: Clean Faucets and Drains
Remove and clean faucet aerators and use vinegar or a commercial drain cleaner to flush the drain. Follow with boiling water.
Step 3: Flush the Water Heater
Drain the water heater completely and flush it with clean water. If necessary, replace the anode rod or treat with hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria.
Step 4: Test Well or Municipal Water
If you use well water, schedule a water test for bacteria and contaminants. Municipal water users should report the issue to the water authority and use bottled water in the meantime.
Step 5: Call a Professional
If the smell persists or if contamination is suspected, contact First and Last Restoration for a full inspection. We use advanced diagnostics to trace the source of the problem and provide safe, effective solutions.
FAQ
Why Does My Bathroom Smell Like Sewage?
If you’ve walked into your bathroom and been hit with a foul sewage smell, you’re not alone. This common household problem can be both unpleasant and alarming. A sewage odor in the bathroom usually points to issues in your home’s plumbing or drainage system, and ignoring it can lead to bigger problems.
Why Does My House Smell Like Sewage?
If your house smells like sewage, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong, and ignoring it can lead to health risks, property damage, and costly repairs. Potential problems can come from p-traps, clogged drains, septic tank issues, and much more.
Why Choose First and Last Restoration?
When your water smells like sewage, you need a trusted, experienced restoration team on your side. At First and Last Restoration, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving water contamination, plumbing issues, and sewage damage. Our certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to identify the cause and restore your home to a clean, safe condition.
We’re available 24/7 for emergencies and work with your insurance provider to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether it’s a plumbing backup, septic issue, or water heater contamination, you can count on us to get your water smelling fresh again.
Call First and Last Restoration Today
A sewage smell in your water is more than a nuisance. It’s a warning sign of contamination. Take action today to protect your health and your home. Contact First and Last Restoration for a fast, professional inspection and solution.
