Gorund water Sump Pump Odor

[pistolpete71]

Hello, I have a sump pump that removes ground water from underneath the basement and house and gets discharged outside. However, when the pump runs it initiates a rotten egg smell that permeates inside (when the pump is uncovered) and outside (from the discharge hose). Also, the color of the water is a brownish color. What solutions are there to eliminate the water smell and can it be hydrogen sulfide? I'm really looking for solutions to eliminate the smell of the water so when we are outside we can enjoy the fresh air. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

[Ron C]

Hello, I have a sump pump that removes ground water from underneath the basement and house and gets discharged outside. However, when the pump runs it initiates a rotten egg smell that permeates inside (when the pump is uncovered) and outside (from the discharge hose). Also, the color of the water is a brownish color. What solutions are there to eliminate the water smell and can it be hydrogen sulfide? I'm really looking for solutions to eliminate the smell of the water so when we are outside we can enjoy the fresh air. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

There are a few questions I have before giving you an answer.
Do you have a septic tank or are you hooked to city sewers?
Is the water that is brownish have a goopy slimy substance?
Are there any plumbing pipes draining into the sump?
Is your property adjacent to a swamp or wetland?
What kind of soil is prevalent in your area? (sand, clay, bedrock, etc...)

[BillW60]

I too have a rather foul odor coming from my the sump in my basement. Mine however also handles the washer water as well as the basement utility sink water, which is then pumped into the main drain before exiting the house into our septic system. We had a plumber over and he insisted that a sump shouldn't smell for any reason since the ground water is clean, even after I repeatedly reminded him of the washer and utility sink draining into it. Grrr...

He suggested I get some plumbers putty and seal around all joints and seams around the lid of the sump, which is similar to what I was already thinking. Based on his previous comments though, I have my doubts regarding his knowledge of the issues.

My question is this: Is this a viable option and would I be creating any problems by sealing the sump? There is a vent from the sump up through the house and the roof, so I don't imagine it could build up any type of pressure, but I just want to be sure before doing anything.

The odor is worst when we use the fireplace (natural draw...) or open certain windows when the wind is right. Other times, the odor is non-existent. I've recently added a nicely finished bedroom and an office in the basement. The odor isn't usually present in the bedroom, but it is in my office (which is actually just a semi-finished corner of the basement...) and I find I just don't want to put up with it all day. Can you help?

[Ron C]

Sump pumps are designed to pump ground water seepage not plumbing water. Airtight lids will reduce odors and moisture but you need to have a professional take a look at the situation. Call a plumber and then a local Basement Systems dealer.