Ways to Eliminate Drain Odors

Source of Smell

Identifying the source of the smell in your drain is crucial first. There are many reasons why your home could smell, depending on the location. Here are some of the typical causes of foul-smelling drain odor:

• Waste- Waste is a common reason for bad odors. Sewage releases harmful gases and odors during its breakdown. Normally, drain taps prevent the sewage smell from entering your house. However, if there’s an issue with the drain tap, sewer gasses may get into your drains. Other sewer-related odors can be prevented by regular sewer line cleaning, but if the issue is larger and beyond simple cleaning, sewer repair might be necessary.
• Grease- The accumulation of grease and oil in sink pipes can lead to bad odors as they slowly break down.
• Mold and Mildew- Mold and mildew is another common reason for bad odors coming in your drains. This usually happens when there’s a leak. If this is the case, seeking out professional help for plumbing repair services can help.
• Others- A lot of waste products goes down the drains; this includes soap, hair, debris, dead skin, and others. Eventually, as they descend into your drain, they combine and harden into a fibrous structure that creates clogs as well as smelling bad.

Soap and Hot Water

As the first method, you can boil some water and then mix it with soap. Afterwards, pour it slowly down the drain. Wait a few minutes and then repeat the process. Finally, run the cold water. 

Fill the Drain Trap

A lot of people don’t guess this right away, but one of the most frequent causes of foul-smelling drains is the seepage of sewer gasses into your house. This usually happens when that drain isn’t commonly used. A drain trap normally has some water inside to prevent the passage of bad odors. If this water evaporates, it’ll be much easier for the sewage odors to pass through the drains. To prevent this, pour about a quart of water into the trap to ensure that the water level is high enough to seal off the hazardous sewage gases. You may even prefer to pour a little bit of cooking oil to prevent water from evaporating quickly.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

This is another easy home remedy you can do to address your drain issue. Simply put some dry baking soda down the drain. On top of baking soda, gradually add vinegar until it reacts; when you finally don’t hear any bubbling anymore and the bad smell is cleared, you’re good to go.

Bleach

Of course, bleach takes care of a lot of microorganisms that cause the odors inside your drains. Simply fill the entire sink with hot water and then pour one cup of bleach into the sink. After that, slowly let the sink empty. Be careful when it comes to this method, especially if you have a septic tank, because it kills the beneficial bacteria as well, and try not to use this too many times because it can be corrosive to your pipes.

Reliable Plumbing Company in Your Area

If you discover issues, such as chronic foul odors coming from drains, that you are unable to resolve on your own, the professionals at Express Plumbing & Rooter will be happy to help. As a plumbing firm, we can help you with a wide range of plumbing services, including trenchless sewer line replacement. For more information, please get in touch with us.