Bad odors from plumbing fixtures are a fairly common problem in homes. Sometimes, this problem happens intermittently and does not require special attention. Proactive Property Management says other times, it becomes a near-permanent feature of the plumbing. Why do plumbing fixtures emit a bad odor? Is there a way to solve this problem without spending more money?
Why your plumbing emits a bad odor and how to fix it
A clogged or dried-out P-trap
A P-Trap, or a Sink Trap, is a U-shaped bend underneath sinks, bathtubs, and shower drains. The trapped water inside this U-shaped bend plugs the pipe and prevents sewer gases from rolling backward into your home. However, the P-trap can become clogged with debris, and over time, this trapped debris will rot and emit a foul odor into your home. Your P-Trap can also dry out, giving sewer gases free access to your home. Cleaning a clogged P-trap is simple. Unfasten the section of piping, clean and replace it. If the P-trap smells because it has dried out, pouring warm water into the drain will fix the problem.
A badly-maintained garbage disposal
Garbage disposals handle a lot of food waste, and it is not uncommon for some food waste to get stuck inside the garbage disposal. That in itself is not a problem. It only becomes an issue if the garbage disposal is not cleaned regularly. That gives the lodged debris time to decay and emit bad odors. The smell of rotting food will eventually find its way into your home. To clean the garbage disposal, pour liquid soap and warm water into the drain and let the appliance run. Alternatively, you can pour baking soda into the drain, followed by vinegar, and let the mixture sit for an hour. Grinding lemons or oranges in the machine will also eliminate bad odors.
Biofilm inside drainpipes
Biofilm is a sticky or slimy substance that lines the surface of showers, tub drains, and areas with stagnant water and warm temperatures. Biofilm consists of a complex community of diverse microorganisms that adhere to the surface of plumbing. It impedes water flow through pipes, and the biological processes of these organisms produce an unpleasant odor that can find its way into your home. Dealing with biofilm is not hard at all. Get some soda crystals and heap them over the drain opening. Steadily pour a kettle of near-boiling water over the crystals until they disappear. Repeat the process an hour later or as many times as needed.
Blocked drain vents
The drain vents on your roof are connected to the plumbing inside your home. They provide an escape route for sewer gases collected inside the drainpipes. If the drain vents become clogged with leaves and debris or a small animal makes its home inside the pipe, these gases will be unable to find a way out. Having nowhere else to go, the gases can flow backward through your drainpipes and enter your home. To fix this problem, inspect the vent for damage and clear the material blocking the airway. Since you must get on the roof to do that, this job is best handled by a professional plumber.
Clogged sewer line
A clog inside your sewer line will stop the flow of water and sewer gases through the pipe. Bad odors in your home are a major sign that your sewer line may be in big trouble. The sewer line could be blocked by grease buildup, unflushable items stuck inside the line, tree roots penetrating the sewer line, or other problems. A clogged sewer line is not to be taken lightly. To fix a clogged sewer line, you first have to inspect the line to know the location of the clog. Following that, you should have the sewer line cleaned professionally to remove any debris and blockage (including tree roots) inside the pipes.
A dirty, clogged, or damaged toilet
An unwashed or clogged toilet will emit bad odors into your home. If the source of the bad odors is a dirty toilet, that is easy to fix. A clogged toilet can also release bad odors into your home. This problem is also fairly easy to solve if you have a toilet plunger in your home and know how to use it. The third reason why your toilet smells is not so easy to solve. Your toilet will admit bad odors into your home if the wax ring between the bottom of the toilet seat and the floor is broken. To fix a broken wax seal, you must replace it. Typically, this is not something you can do by yourself. You need a professional plumber to deal with the problem.
Finally, if none of these tips can fix the problem of bad odors in your home, then it is time for a professional plumber to look at your plumbing thoroughly.