# How to Kill the Smell in a Sump Pump Tank
If your sump pump begins to produce an overpowering stench because it's not properly maintained, it can be quickly remedied with some basic care. A common cause of sump pump tank odors is when water doesn't properly flow to its basin during dry spells. If the trap in the tank has not been used in a few weeks and the water in there evaporates, it can cause the backup of sewer gas into your house -- and with it, strong odors.
Things You'll Need
- Old clothes
- Protective gloves
- Hose
- Brush
- Chlorine bleach
- Bucket
- Toothpick
Instructions
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1
Wear old clothes, and protect your hands with gloves before working on your sump pump tank.
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2
Take the lid off the cover of the pit where your sump pump tank is located.
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3
Spray down the walls of the pit with a hose, clearing away any accumulated grime. Continue spraying until the walls are clean. Scrub away any remaining grime with a brush. Pull out any solid debris with your hands.
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4
Mix together 1 cup of chlorine bleach in a bucket with a gallon of warm water.
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5
Pour the solution into the basin. When the float switch activates, stop pouring. When it turns on, the water will cycle through the tank and clear out the smell. There is no need to get rid of the bleach residue, as it will soon be replaced with incoming water. Put the lid back on the tank.
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