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    Tinwoods's Avatar
    Tinwoods Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Apr 12, 2012, 02:35 PM
    Sewer gas and empty septic tank
    Today the septic tank was emptied and now it stinks of sewer gas inside the building. Could it be from the vent pipe? All the toilets have been flushed and all drains have had water run in them. We thought maybe a full sewer tank was causing a smell, so the tank was emptied. Can't say that we have any bubble or gurgle sounds. So now the doors are open to let in fresh air. Suggestions?
    speedball1's Avatar
    speedball1 Posts: 29,301, Reputation: 1939
    Eternal Plumber
    		  
    #2

    Apr 12, 2012, 04:33 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by Tinwoods View Post
    Today the septic tank was emptied and now it stinks of sewer gas inside the building. Could it be from the vent pipe? All the toilets have been flushed and all drains have had water run in them. We thought maybe a full sewer tank was causing a smell, so the tank was emptied. Can't say that we have any bubble or gurgle sounds. So now the doors are open to let in fresh air. Suggestions?
    Your nose is the best detective. Sniff around the base of the toilets for r a bad wax seal. Check the floor drain in the basement. Where does it stink the worst? Back to you, Tom
    Tinwoods's Avatar
    Tinwoods Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Apr 14, 2012, 11:00 AM
    It seems to be in the basement. After opening doors and windows the smell is gone. We have asked if anyone remembers when the last time was the septic tank was emptied and no one remembers. Could it be just because the tank was emptied on a very windy day that it forced air into the building through the sewer system? TIA, Tinwoods
    speedball1's Avatar
    speedball1 Posts: 29,301, Reputation: 1939
    Eternal Plumber
    		  
    #4

    Apr 14, 2012, 01:56 PM
    What fixtures do you have in the basement? Do any of your fixtures bubble or gurgle at you? If the floor drain's unused pour a quart of cooking oil or anti-freeze down the trap. Back to you, Tom
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