Fraud Blocker Why Does My Drain Smell? - Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm

Does a drain in your house smell? Whether it’s the kitchen sink or shower, drain smells can always happen — however, what’s causing that smell in the first place? The smell coming from your drains can have several sources, so let’s review four of the potential causes.

Bacteria

Bacteria is a common culprit when there’s a smell coming from the drain. As time goes on, food scraps, hair, and other materials accumulate in the pipes. This attracts bacteria, which feed and multiply. However, it is worth noting that bacteria are naturally found in plumbing systems, and some kinds can help decompose organic matter. However, they can still cause bad drain smells when too many accumulate — even a well-cleaned sink can build up enough bacteria to create foul odors.

Bacteria build-up can also lead to the creation of hydrogen sulfide, which smells like rotten eggs. Additionally, drain clogs are one of the reasons why smells can occur. As a result, it’s a good idea to have your drains professionally cleaned when they start to smell bad.

Clogged Sewer Vent Pipes

Did you know that your sewer pipes are connected to vent pipes? They give the foul gasses a chance to escape. Unfortunately, it’s possible for them to become blocked or clogged. When this happens, the gasses build-up, resulting in smells coming from the drains of your home. A clogged vent also prevents water from draining properly through the septic system, causing other problems to occur as well. 

Rot

If the smell is coming from the drain in the kitchen sink, it’s possible that rotting food is the cause. When you put food scraps down the drain, they can stick on the walls of the pipe or in the garbage disposal. Over time, the discarded food will rot — and it doesn’t take very much to make it smell very bad. To ensure you never experience this foul smell, be sure to properly dispose of food in the trash and not in the sink. Also, remember to thoroughly clean garbage disposal units.

Mold

A smell coming from the drain might indicate a leak. If water were to escape the pipes through a leak, it could soak the nearby building materials. This moist environment makes it easier for mold and mildew to grow, which can be the source of the bad odors. When you start to smell bad odors coming from your drain, check to see if there’s a leak. If you’re having trouble pinpointing a leak, search for any discolored flooring or walls near the pipes.

When There’s a Smell Coming From Your Drain, Give a Professional Plumber a Call!

Although our team doesn’t typically do home interior work, if you need drain cleaning in Delaware County or the surrounding areas, contact Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer, & Storm. We offer a variety of services to ensure your home’s sewer system is in optimal condition. If you’re searching for septic system replacement companies near me, you can always place your trust in our team! 

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