Is sewer gas dangerous in a building?
Yes. Hydrogen sulfide above 10 ppm causes headaches and eye irritation; above 100 ppm it causes loss of consciousness. Methane is explosive at 5–15% by volume. Persistent sewer smell should be treated as urgent.
Why it happens
Sewer gas is a mixture of gases from decomposing wastewater. Its primary odorous component, hydrogen sulfide, is not just a nuisance; it produces a characteristic rotten-egg smell and actively corrodes building materials like concrete and copper piping, leading to infrastructure damage over time.
What to check
For a general sewer smell, first check all floor drains, sinks, and plumbing fixtures to ensure their P-traps are not dry. Refilling infrequently used traps with water can block gas from entering. If the odor is localized near a sump or ejector pit, inspect the pit lid, pump seals, and vent connections for any obvious leaks that could allow gas to escape.
When to call a professional
If refilling traps does not resolve the odor, or if the smell is persistent and strong, professional intervention is necessary. Servicing wastewater systems like ejector pits or lift stations involves addressing biofilm, sludge, and mechanical seals, often requiring specialized equipment and confined-space procedures that building staff should not attempt.
How Luften handles it
Luften treats sewer odor at its source rather than masking it. Our programs address the main causes of ejector pit odor: biofilm on surfaces, escaping gas from faulty seals, and sludge buildup from pump cycles. We use continuous, metered dosing of specialized chemistry to neutralize hydrogen sulfide production directly within the system. Our technicians conduct scheduled service visits to inspect equipment and verify performance. We also offer emergency response and provide a free on-site survey to identify specific odor sources.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) odor treatment with continuous dosing