The Dangers of Ignoring Drain Smells & What They Mean
If you notice strange odors coming from your drains, it’s more than just an unpleasant smell; they often indicate deeper plumbing issues. Whether the foul odor is in your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, these smells often point to problems that can worsen over time if left unaddressed. Additionally, ignoring them can lead to health hazards. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to understand what different drain smells mean, how they’re caused, and how to fix them to keep you, your loved ones, and your home safe and healthy.
Common Causes of Drain Smells & What They Indicate
Causes of bad drain odors can be hard to pinpoint, but it’s important to know where they stem from to resolve the issue. If your drain’s P-trap is dry from underuse, then sewer gas can freely waft up into your home, creating a foul odor. If your drain or garbage disposal is clogged with food waste, grease, hair, soap scum, or other particles, they can trap bacteria, causing a musty or rotten smell. Another common cause of bad odors is mold and mildew, which thrive in areas prone to excessive moisture and dampness. Additionally, cracked or damaged sewer lines can cause abnormal odors that often indicate a more severe plumbing issue.
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Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Drain Smells
You likely don’t want foul odors hanging around, regardless, but it’s crucial to diagnose and fix them ASAP for a slew of additional reasons. Drain smells often signal deeper problems that, if ignored, can pose risks to both your health and your property, some of which include:
- Health hazards: Sewer gases can lead to headaches and respiratory issues, whereas mold and mildew can cause worsening allergy and asthma symptoms.
- Structural damage: Some odors are caused by leaks or cracks in your plumbing system, which can lead to water or foundational damage.
- Pest infestations: Flies, cockroaches, and other rodents are drawn to damp, dark areas with stagnant water.
How To Diagnose & Fix Drain Smells
First, you should determine where the smell is coming from: the kitchen, bathroom, basement, laundry room, or another area. It’s also important to note when the smell arises, such as after a shower or during dinner cleanup. If the P-trap is dry, try refilling it with running water. Clear out a clogged garbage disposal after turning off the power, and flush it with ice and citrus peels or a baking soda and vinegar solution. Check for leaks or mold and mildew around drains or under sinks, and seal any easy-to-reach cracks in piping.
When To Call a Plumber
If the above DIY tricks don’t seem to work, there are multiple sources of odors, or you suspect the issue is more severe, it’s time to reach out to a team of professionals. An expert can perform an in-depth inspection, provide an expert opinion, and resolve the problem.
Schedule Drain Cleaning Services Today
For expert drain cleaning solutions tailored to your specific circumstance, Iceberg Home Services is here to help. Our team specializes in providing 24/7 emergency and same-day services on all brands, free estimates on replacement quotes, no overtime charges, and a range of discounts and coupons for your benefit.
Ensure your Central Florida home’s plumbing system is in good shape by working with our team. Schedule today!
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