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Why Does My House Smell Like Rotten Eggs: 4 Possible Reasons
Pete Ortiz
Last updated:
The smell of rotten eggs is easily distinguishable but understandably not a scent you want stuck in your house. Until the problem is solved, it’s important to avoid lighting matches because there is a chance of a flammable gas leak. We’ll discuss the most common reasons for the foul odor and how to eliminate it, but unfortunately, each solution requires a professional’s help. Natural gas, sewer gas, toxic drywall, and mold cannot be addressed with DIY techniques.
Why Does My House Smell Like Rotten Eggs (4 Possible Reasons)
1. Natural Gas Leak
Image Credit: Pixabay
The most common cause of a rotten egg smell is a natural gas leak. If the smell is strong and you suspect a gas leak, exit your house and call 911 from a safe location. The odor is not natural gas but of mercaptan, a substance utility companies inject into the gas lines.
It acts as a warning so people recognize when gas is leaking since natural gas holds no odor. If you are not sure it is a natural gas leak, you should still vacate the house and call your utility company.
2. Sewer Gas Leak
Image Credit: Pixabay
Another cause for the smell is sewer gas. It is a more likely culprit if you are experiencing any health issues, such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, or loss of appetite. Sometimes, the source of the sewer gas is the bathroom.
The trap way in your toilet may be clogged, and if you cannot resolve the issue with a plunger or snake, contact a professional plumber. The smell could also be caused by a clog in the lines connecting to your home, which will also require a plumber to fix it.
3. Toxic Drywall
Image Credit: Virrage Images, Shutterstock
If your plumber has assured you it is not a natural gas leak or sewer gas leak but you still smell of rotten eggs, there could be an issue with your drywall. Humidity in the air can cause sulfur in the drywall to give off a gas that can cause health problems and corrode exposed copper pipes or wiring in your home.
If you have toxic drywall in your house, it is not a DIY job. You must call a professional to have the sheets ripped out and replaced.
4. Mold
Image credit: Mold by TheDigitalArtist, Pixabay
If there is just a faint rotten egg odor in your home, it could be because of a mold problem and not a gas leak. Some homeowners have described the smell of mold as similar to that of dirty socks. You may not see it if it’s growing behind the drywall, but it’s best to call a professional to inspect your property for mold.
The mold and smell could also be coming from your garbage disposal. Odor-causing bacteria reside in sinks and garbage disposals. To sanitize your disposal, put a few ice cubes, a tablespoon of baking soda, three or four lemon slices, and a teaspoon of bleach into the disposal, and turn it on. When the grinding stops, run the cold water tap for 30 seconds. This should clear the bacteria as well as the smell.
Our tips should help you identify why your house smells like rotten eggs and hopefully give you a quick and effective fix. Whether the smell is hydrogen sulfide gas or toxic mold, it’s essential to resolve the issue promptly. Toxic mold and gas can cause severe medical issues and make your home unlivable. If you experience any symptoms related to the odor, don’t hesitate to get medical assistance.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
Contents
Writer
Pete Ortiz
Pete has been working in the trades since high school, where he first developed a passion for woodworking. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing.
As the founder of House Grail, Pete's primary goal is to help consumers make educated decisions about DIY projects at home, in the garage, and in the garden.
