Septic Tank Smells A Bit Lately

robertc65

In the last week or so I have been getting a whiff of stink from my septic tank when I walk outside. It's not very strong, but I have never smelled it before. I had it emptied out about 6 months ago so I know it's not over flowing with solids and at the time the septic guys said it looked to be in perfect shape. I'm wondering if the fact that we have had so much rain recently and the ground is pretty much saturated including the area above the drain field. Could this cause some odor?

Thanks

Rob

lenlaf53

It may take some time for the scum layer to reform in the septic tank. Once it forms, it will block some of the smell. The odor is normal, just think of what is going on in there. Try to reduce large water uses such as laundry and see if this helps.

mdshunk

When it's been raining a lot in the recent past, you will get a whif every once in a while. The system just won't perk that well in sopping wet ground. No big deal.

cleveman

Are you going outside to pass gas? This may be what you are smelling.

painterman

If you can smell it ,there is a very good chance that something is wrong. Pull the tops of the tank and have a look. The tank should not be filled to the very top(above the exit pipe). Sounds(smells) like the leach field is not draining away.

Good luck