Sump Pump Room Scent

[user 9847]

Hello,

I live in a 4 story building and I am in the garden unit (half underground). Lately there's been a lingering scent coming from the utility room in my unit that houses the sump pump. I've tried simple stuff like baking soda and a fan etc. to make it dissipate, but haven't had any luck. The scent tends to get worse when it is wet outside or right after rain.

From reading online I've found this is relatively normal, but I was curious what this is driven by. The floor/seals that are in the room don't exactly look like they are in spectacular shape and I was curious if fixing these should be a first priority to see if it remedies the problem or if there are other things people might recommend.

If the recommendation is to simply call a plumber too that'd be fine, just figured I'd check before a house call is made .

 

[frodo]

the lid on the left pit, looks like it is open

the lids, by code, are to be sealed, so the stench is not smelled

contact your landlord inform him of a health hazard condition

ie. methane / sewer gas

upc code 710.14.1 sumps - the sump shall be water and gas tight

 

[user 9847]

Thanks frodo! You are correct. There are openings where the pipes enter the lid that aren't sealed and the lid is not attached/sealed to the top of the cylinder.

I actually own the home (Illinois) so I'll be responsible for the fix myself .

It looks like I could probably slide the lid over to help close off the opening, but where the pipes enter the lid would probably be a bit more complicated. Is there a specific type of seal that should be used? Or would you recommend calling a plumber?

 

[frodo]

that lid should bolt down, check it for bolt holes, check the tank rim for bolt holes

you might have to vacuum the holes out to get to the threads.

just find a simple neoprene gasket material cut to length,

for pipe holes, silicone

 

[KULTULZ]

Pipe And Power Cord Seals-

SOURCE- http://www.shopradon.com/radon-sump-covers/

You would silicone (clear) the lid to the basin if there is no fastener system.

This is code compliant for radon so I would a$$-u-me it would suffice for a sewage pit...