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Readers pipe up over septic-tank smell

DEAR READERS: Whew — apparently you needed to vent over the March 7 column, in which a family's new septic system started to stink a few months after installation (the smell was traced to the vent pipe on the roof).

You sent ideas, product recommendations, personal stories — basically, everything but another new septic system.

The bad thing about this is: There's been a lot of stink around.

The good thing about this is: You've eliminated a good chunk of it.

So, with the hope of eliminating even more, here's a look at a batch of your letters, plus responses where appropriate. We'll run some more next week.

Q: We spent 33 years on the same tank, which, about every six months, would vent a bad smell at our front entrance. A packet of dry yeast flushed down a toilet would improve it almost immediately.

Q: Put a "P" trap in the roof vents. That would take care of it.

A: Vents need to be open to the sky in order to function. Bad idea. Next!

Q: On still-air days, this heavier-than-air gas can come out the vents and roll down the roof, especially if water is being used, displacing air in the drain system. This is a normal occurrence. I am in the septic-pumping business and run into this problem on a regular basis. It is not cause for alarm. We have recommended to many of our customers an activated charcoal canister. These canisters attach to the top of the vent. Customers who have purchased them say that they are effective.

Q: I have used a product for septic-tank odor for years with great success. It also keeps your drains clear better than anything.

A: Can't speak for these products specifically without having used them myself, but I have the product information for those wishing it.

Q: I was reading the Journal of Light Construction and thought a whole house trap would be appropriate.

Q: One suggestion you made was to extend the pipe higher above the roof. Too unsightly. The U-shaped pipe installed under all sinks was installed between the house and the septic, only installed with the U facing up rather than down as is normal. It worked!

A: Both of these "running traps" or "whole house traps" are illegal in our area, might be prone to clogging or require venting to function, defeating the purpose of what is trying to be accomplished.

Q: Laundry seems to make my septic system smell.

A: You might have a system that is overtaxed, or in need of pumping or other repair if doing the laundry is making it smell. Try spreading the laundry loads out over several days, don't roll around in the dirt at work or wear your underwear for a week like I do.

And now for something completely different, just so your parting image isn't of my underwear:

Q: How often is too often when it comes to painting interior walls? I'm referring in particular to a small rental home that turns over with new tenants every few years. My husband usually gets in there between times and completely repaints (except the trim). The walls appear to look fine, but I can't help but think of this thick paint accumulation that surely is occurring.

A: I see no problem with multiple layers of paint on drywall or plaster.

Darrell Hay answers readers' questions. Call 206-464-8514 to record your question