Smelly Drains: Causes and When to Call Experts

Experiencing unpleasant odours emanating from your drains can be a distressing situation. Not only are these smells unpleasant, but they can also indicate underlying plumbing issues that need immediate attention. Understanding the causes of these smelly drains and how to address them is essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable home environment.

Experiencing unpleasant odours emanating from your drains can be a distressing situation. Not only are these smells unpleasant, but they can also indicate underlying plumbing issues that need immediate attention. Understanding the causes of these odours and how to address them is essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable home environment.

Common Causes of Drain Odours

Bacterial Growth

One of the most common reasons for smelly drains is that bacteria build up there. Over time, organic matter like food scraps and grease can build up, causing germs to grow that give off bad smells. Debris builds up in kitchen sinks, where food waste is often flushed down the drain. Bacteria do best in damp places. When they break down organic matter, they release gases that can smell like sewage or bad eggs. This growth can be avoided by cleaning and maintaining things regularly.

Clogged Drains

If your plumbing gets clogged, trash and other things can get stuck inside, where germs can grow and cause bad smells. The main sewer line, kitchen sink, and bathroom drains can all get clogged. The smell can worsen the longer a clog stays in place, so it's important to clear it immediately. Slow draining, gurgling sounds, and water backing up are all signs of clogged and smelly drains. Water damage and expensive repairs could happen if you don't fix a serious problem.

Dry P-Traps

The P-trap is a piece of plumbing that keeps sewer gases out of your home by holding water in it. If you rarely use your drain, the water in the P-trap can evaporate, allowing foul odours to escape. A seldom-used drain is often the case in guest bathrooms or infrequently-used sinks. To prevent this, consider running water through these drains periodically to fill the P-trap. If you have a drain you don't use often, adding a few drops of mineral oil can help slow down evaporation.

Sewer Line Issues

More severe problems, such as a broken or damaged sewer line, can lead to significant odours. If you notice a strong sewage smell, addressing this issue is crucial. If you don't fix a broken sewer line immediately, it can put your health at risk and cost a lot to fix. Signs of sewer line issues may include multiple drains backing up, unusually lush patches of grass in your yard, or persistent gurgling noises in your plumbing. If you suspect a sewer line issue, it’s best to consult a professional plumber immediately.

Chemical Reactions

Chemical reactions between cleaning products and organic materials in your drains can sometimes produce unpleasant smells. For instance, using bleach in combination with ammonia can create toxic fumes that linger in your plumbing. It’s essential to be cautious with the types of cleaners you use and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid creating harmful reactions. Opting for natural cleaning solutions is often safer and more effective.

Pro-Tip: To prevent unpleasant odours from developing in your drains, establish a regular cleaning routine. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar monthly to help break down organic matter and eliminate bacteria buildup. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain, let it fizz for about 30 minutes, and then flush with hot water. This natural method not only helps keep your drains clean but also reduces the chances of foul smells and potential clogs.

When to Call a Professional

While many drain issues can be resolved with DIY methods, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional plumber. Knowing the warning signs you need professional help with can save you time and money and possibly even damage your pipes. Here are some critical situations when you should consider contacting a professional:

Persistent Odours

If the unpleasant smells continue despite your cleaning efforts, it may indicate a more severe issue that requires professional inspection. Foul odours can signify hidden problems, such as a buildup of waste in the pipes or a malfunctioning sewer line. An experienced plumber can conduct a thorough assessment to identify the source of the smell and recommend appropriate solutions.

Multiple Smelly Drains Backing Up

If more than one drain in your home is experiencing problems, it could be a sign of a main sewer line issue, which a plumber should address. When there are multiple affected fixtures, it often indicates a blockage in the main sewer line rather than isolated clogs. A professional can use specialised equipment, such as video inspection tools, to pinpoint the location and cause of the blockage.

Signs of Water Damage

If you see mould, water spots, or dampness around your smelly drains, you need a professional to look at it immediately to stop more damage. Water damage can damage your home's structure and make you sick because mould can grow. A plumber can find cracks or leaks in your plumbing and suggest fixes to keep the damage minimal.

Frequent Clogs

If you have many problems with clogs, check your water system for deeper issues. Repeated clogs could indicate a bigger problem, like tree roots getting into the pipes, pipe corrosion, or a sewer line that has fallen. As a skilled plumber, I can do a full inspection to find out why the clogs keep happening and fix the problem for good.

Slow Drainage

If your drains are consistently slow, even after attempting to clear them, it may signal a deeper issue within your plumbing system. Slow drainage can result from grease, hair, or other debris buildup, but it can also indicate a more severe blockage or damage to the pipes. A plumber can figure out what's wrong quickly and effectively fix it.

Unusual Noises

If you hear gurgling, bubbling, or other unusual noises coming from your drains, it could be a sign of a venting issue or a blockage in the plumbing system. These sounds can indicate that air is trapped in the pipes or that water is struggling to pass through a clog. A professional plumber can look into where the noises are coming from and fix the problem.

Sewer Backups

If you experience sewage backing up into your home, it is an emergency that requires immediate professional attention. Sewer backups can be very bad for your health and cause extensive property damage. Contacting a plumber can help address the issue and prevent further complications.

Water Bills Going Up for No Reason

If your water bill goes up quickly without you using more water, it could mean a leak or other problem with your pipes. A professional plumber can conduct a leak detection assessment to identify any hidden leaks contributing to the increased costs.

Renovations or New Installations

It's a good idea to talk to a professional plumber before remodelling your kitchen or bathroom or installing new plumbing fixtures. They can ensure that they correctly install the plumbing. They also comply with local codes, preventing future issues arising from improper installation.

Lack of Experience or Tools

If you’ve tried to resolve the issue but lack the experience or tools, it’s best to call a professional. If you try to fix these plumbing problems, you could do more damage. You may have to pay more to fix it later.

Pro-Tip: Ensure that P-traps in seldom-used drains are regularly filled with water to prevent sewer gases from escaping into your home. If you have drains in guest bathrooms or other infrequently used areas, run water through them at least once a month. For added protection, consider pouring a few drops of mineral oil into these drains to slow down evaporation. This simple step can significantly reduce odours and maintain a healthier indoor environment.

What if I need servicing for Unpleasant Odours Coming from the Drain?

If you’re dealing with unpleasant odours coming from your drain, we’re here to help. At All Needs Plumbing, we offer a $0 callout fee. The offer ensures you can get the assistance you need without any upfront costs. Our team provides 24/7 same-day service, so you can count on us to be there whenever you need us. Plus, we’re proud to offer a 15% discount to our valued senior customers. If you’re considering upgrading your hot water system, we can offer you $150 off. Don’t let unpleasant odours disrupt your home—contact us today at allneedsplumbing.com.au for prompt and professional service! We are committed to keeping your house a safe and comfortable place for you and your family.