Drain Odors Explained
Do you have a smelly sink or shower drain? If so, you’re not alone. Many people experience this issue, and it can be caused by a variety of things.
In this blog post, we will discuss the most common causes of bad-smelling drains and how to fix them. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent your drain from smelling bad in the future!
Drain Clogs
The most common cause of a bad-smelling drain is a clog. When water can’t flow freely down the drain, it creates a buildup and produces an unpleasant smell. If you have a clog, youll need to remove it before the odor will go away.
This can usually be done by using a plunger or a drain snake. If youre not sure how to do this, you can always call a plumber to clear your drain. But stay away from harsh, chemical drain cleaners, as they can harm your pipes and make the problem worse.
P-Trap Problems
Another common cause of bad-smelling drains is a dried-out P-trap. The P-trap is the curved portion of pipe under your sink that holds water. This water forms a seal that prevents sewer gasses from coming up through the drain.
If your P-trap is dry, sewer gasses will be able to escape and enter your home, leading to a bad smell. This often happens if you leave your home for an extended period of time (like for vacation) and can be solved by simply running your sink or shower to refill the trap.
But if it happens frequently, you may have a more serious issue that warrants a visit from a plumber. Remember, sewer gas is dangerous and you shouldnt be breathing it in.
Sewer Issues
In some cases, a bad-smelling drain can be a sign of a larger issue, like a broken sewer line. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms, like backups in your drains or toilets, or water pooling around your home. If you suspect you have a broken sewer line, its important to call a plumber right away as this is a serious problem.
Preventing Bad-Smelling Drains
Here are a few tips to prevent drain odors:
- Dont pour grease or oil down your drain. This can cause clogs and can lead to odor.
- Periodically flush your drains with boiling water. This will help remove any build-up in your pipes and prevent odors.
- Run your garbage disposal regularly, even if you dont think it needs it. This will help keep it clean and free of odor-causing bacteria.
No Problem Too Small for Our Elite Team
Remember, plumbing problems can often seem small at first but turn into bigger issues if theyre not taken care of right away. So, if you have a bad-smelling drain, dont wait to take action! Contact the Plumbing & A/C Medic team today at 602-878-6478 for 5 Star Service you can trust.
