What causes sewer smell in my Toronto house?

The most common causes are dry P-traps (especially in winter), broken wax rings under toilets, cracked vent pipes, damaged sewer line seals, and improperly installed drain assemblies. Toronto's freeze-thaw cycles accelerate these issues.

Is sewer gas dangerous to breathe?

Yes. Sewer gas contains hydrogen sulfide (toxic), methane (explosive at 5-15% concentration), ammonia (respiratory irritant), and carbon dioxide. Short-term exposure causes headaches and nausea; long-term exposure can cause serious health issues including neurological damage.

How do I find where the sewer smell is coming from?

Use the sniff test room-by-room. Check bathrooms (dry P-traps, wax ring failure), basement (floor drains, sump pump), kitchen (dry trap in dishwasher air gap), and laundry room. Pour water in unused drains first to rule out dry traps.

Can I fix a sewer smell myself?

Simple fixes include pouring water down dry drains, cleaning drain covers, and ensuring vent caps aren't blocked. However, broken wax rings, cracked vent pipes, and sewer line issues require professional repair. If smell persists after pouring water in all drains, call a plumber.

Why does my bathroom smell like sewage in winter?

Toronto's cold winters cause P-trap water to evaporate faster in heated homes with low humidity. Guest bathrooms, basement floor drains, and rarely-used fixtures are most susceptible. Solution: pour 1 cup water down each drain monthly or add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to slow evaporation.

How much does it cost to fix sewer smell issues in Toronto?

DIY fixes (pouring water) cost $0. Professional diagnosis with camera inspection: $150-$300. Wax ring replacement: $150-$250. Vent pipe repair: $300-$800. Sewer line repair: $500-$3,000+ depending on extent of damage. Emergency service available 24/7.

When should I call a plumber for sewer smell?

Call immediately if: smell persists after pouring water in all drains, multiple rooms affected, smell worsens when flushing toilets, gurgling sounds accompany odor, visible sewage backup, or family members experience headaches/nausea. These indicate serious plumbing defects requiring professional repair.

Can sewer smell mean a broken sewer line?

Yes. Cracked or collapsed sewer lines allow gas to escape into surrounding soil and enter basements through foundation cracks. Signs include: persistent smell despite fixing P-traps, soggy yard patches, foundation settling, and slow drains throughout house. Requires camera inspection and trenchless or traditional repair.

EMERGENCY PLUMBING GUIDE

Sewer Smell in House Toronto: Complete Diagnostic & Fix Guide

📅 Updated January 28, 2025 👤 By Mike Thompson ⏱️ 12 min read ⭐ 4.9/5 Rating

🚨 Emergency Alert: Sewer gas contains toxic hydrogen sulfide and explosive methane. If smell is severe or family members feel sick, ventilate immediately and call (647) 554-4356 for emergency service.

Sewer Smell in House Toronto: Complete Fix Guide 2025 - Toronto plumbing guide

Quick Answer: What Causes Sewer Smell in Toronto Homes?

Sewer smell in your Toronto house is caused by sewer gas escaping through plumbing defects. The top 5 causes are: (1) dry P-traps in unused drains (especially in winter), (2) broken wax rings under toilets, (3) cracked vent pipes on the roof, (4) damaged drain seals in tubs/showers, and (5) main sewer line cracks allowing gas to escape into basements. Most cases can be diagnosed with the room-by-room method below, and 60% of Toronto homeowners can fix dry P-traps themselves by pouring water down unused drains monthly.

Need immediate help?

📞 Call (647) 554-4356 - 24/7 Emergency Service

🔑 Key Takeaways

Dry P-traps are the #1 cause (48% of cases) - pour 1 cup water down unused drains monthly
Sewer gas is dangerous - contains toxic H2S, explosive methane, and ammonia
Winter worsens the problem - Toronto's dry heated air evaporates P-trap water faster
Room-by-room diagnosis works in 90% of cases - start with bathrooms and basement
DIY fixes work for 60% of dry trap cases - professional help needed for structural issues
Camera inspection reveals hidden problems - cracked vent pipes, broken seals, sewer line damage
Health symptoms are warning signs - headaches, nausea, fatigue indicate urgent action needed
Prevention costs less than repair - monthly drain maintenance vs. $500-$3,000 repairs

Sewer Smell Statistics in Toronto

Based on 5,234+ service calls since 2000

48% Dry P-Traps (Preventable)

23% Broken Wax Rings

15% Cracked Vent Pipes

14% Sewer Line Issues

That unmistakable rotten egg smell in your Toronto home isn't just unpleasant—it's a warning sign that sewer gas is entering your living space through a defect in your plumbing system. In this guide, I'll walk you through exactly how to diagnose the source and determine whether you can fix it yourself or need professional help.

This article contains detailed diagnostic steps, health risk information, DIY fixes, professional solutions, FAQ, and related resources.

📞 Call (647) 554-4356 for Expert Help