Is sewer gas from drain making us sick?« Back to Previous Page

A sewage smell from floor drains, especially when the AC turns on, is a strong indicator of a dry drain trap or a compromised plumbing vent system. The negative pressure created by your air conditioner can pull air from the drain pipe into your living space. In the UAE's climate, where AC runs constantly, this issue is common.

Sewer gas contains hydrogen sulfide and methane, which are irritants. At low concentrations, they commonly cause the exact symptoms you describe: headaches, coughing, and eye or throat irritation. For children and those with respiratory sensitivities, these effects can be more pronounced. While chronic exposure to very high levels is hazardous, the primary risk in most residential cases is from the persistent low-level irritation.

The first step is to confirm the source. Pour a litre of water down every floor drain, shower drain, and unused sink in the apartment. This refills the U-bend trap that blocks sewer gas. If the smell persists after 24 hours, the problem is likely a crack in the plumbing line or a blocked vent pipe on the building's roof.

For a persistent odour in an older Deira building, a professional inspection is recommended. They can perform a smoke test to identify leaks in the plumbing system or check the building's vent stacks for blockages from sand, debris, or sediment. Resolving this often requires coordination with your building's management, as the fault may be in the central plumbing infrastructure. Documenting the issue and your family's symptoms can help in discussions with the building owner or Dubai Municipality, which enforces health and safety standards in residential properties.