Broken sump injection pump causing an incredibly strong sewage gas smell from garage?

[Megan D]

About 1 week ago we started experiencing a very strong sewage gas smell (roto rooter said the strongest he'd ever smelled, which I think says something!) that was originating in our garage. One of the toilets was gurgling so we had the septic tank pumped and the lines flushed and snaked, but the smell is still there, and still terribly strong. We have to leave the garage door open day and night to try to prevent it from getting too bad in the house. There are no drains in the garage.

Then yesterday after flushing the toilet in the downstairs walkout basement, I looked in the utility room and noticed that there was water leaking out of the sump pump on the floor (photo below) so I think the injection pump isn't working. I have a plumber coming out Monday with a new pump, but I'm wondering is this related to the awful sewage gas smell?

If not, does anyone have an idea what can be causing the awful smell?

33375

[Garry Sorrells]

Yep the macerator pump pooped out and has just been there fermenting. Smell is from holding pit, not so pure but simple. The odd thing is that the rotos ruterus guy didn't ketch the pump issue.

Good part is that they installed unions so the stinking, thing can be pulled out with ease.

[Jim Robinson]

Do you have a floor drain in the garage connected to the sewer? The trap may have dried out, allowing the gas to rise up into the garage. Not unusual.

Have the plumber put a float alarm in the sump so you will know if the pump fails the next time.

[John Kogel]

Folks, that is a sewage Ejector pump.
The OP is long gone, but the improper terminology lives on here.:(

[Garry Sorrells]

Sewage Ejector pump, absolutely right and I apologize. :hail: Had been on phone just before posting about a replacement macerator pump on a boat. Hadn't gotten my head out of the bilge.

Good catch, correct terminology is extremely important.

[Jerry Peck]

... correct terminology is extremely important.

Except, for some reason, when it comes to electrical panels ...

[Garry Sorrells]

Except, for some reason, when it comes to electrical panels ...

You can take the panel out of the Sub but you can't take the "sub" out of the panel. :p

[Jerry Peck]

You can take the panel out of the Sub but you cant take the "sub" out of the panel. :p

There is no "sub"stitute for proper and correct terminology ... as you so eloquently stated "correct terminology is extremely important."

:biggrin:

:welcome:

[Trent Tarter]

It would also be a good idea to check the sump basin for any cracks and leaks.