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Sewer Gas Odor Diagnosis & Repair needed
Job overview
What needs to be done
We have an intermittent sewer gas smell in our basement bathroom that seems to be coming from the ceiling cavity around the bathroom fan/heater.
Service
Sewer Gas Odor Diagnosis & Repair
Job details
Location
Excelsior
ZIP code
55331
Work location
Bathroom
When do you notice the odor?
It comes and goes
Have there been any recent plumbing changes, repairs, backups, or leaks?
No
Do you see water, sewage, dampness, or staining near the suspected area?
No
How long has the odor been noticeable?
Only in the winter when it's cold outside (most likely negative pressure?)
Timing
Just planning
Other details
It happens primarily during colder weather and is starting to become noticeable again as temperatures cool down. I’ve already done quite a bit of troubleshooting. The shower and sink traps have water, the toilet has previously been temporarily sealed, and the smell appears to stop when the ceiling fan/heater opening is sealed with plastic. Turning on the heater portion of the fan makes the sewer smell significantly stronger. There are two bathrooms/toilets directly above this area. The ceiling also appears to have been opened/repaired by a previous owner, so there may have been prior work in this area. In very cold weather, the plumbing vent on the roof has also developed significant frost/ice buildup, although I don’t know whether that is related. I’m looking for someone experienced in diagnosing sewer gas / DWV leaks, ideally with the proper equipment such as DWV smoke-testing equipment, who can locate the actual source and repair it. I’m not looking to randomly replace wax rings or other parts to see if the problem goes away. I’d like the source identified first. Opening a targeted section of the ceiling is fine if necessary once the likely leak location is established. Please include in your bid how you would diagnose this and whether you have experience/equipment for DWV smoke testing or similar sewer-gas leak detection.
Details still to confirm
Which plumbing fixtures or drains may be involved?