Have you noticed a sewer-like smell coming from your kitchen sink recently? We understand how unpleasant and frustrating that can be, considering that your kitchen is supposed to be the cleanest space in your home. fHowever, this is a problem you’re more likely to experience if you’re not very careful about what goes down the drain.
So, what’s that smell coming from your kitchen sink? Luckily, there are only a few culprits behind this common plumbing problem in homes, and we’re here to shed light on them. Our plumbers in Arthurtown, SC have been called on to address many of these issues, and they understand them inside and out.
A Dry or Dirty P-Trap
The P-trap is the curved section of pipe beneath your sink that holds a small amount of water. This water forms a barrier that prevents sewer gases from coming up through the drain. If you haven’t used your sink in a while, that water can evaporate and allow odors to seep into your kitchen. On the other hand, if the trap is clogged with food debris or grease, the buildup can start to smell as it decomposes. You can disassemble the P-trap, clean the fitting, and put it back together. If you’re not comfortable with removing the P-trap, leave the job to an experienced plumbing repair service.
Grease and Food Buildup
Over time, grease, oil, and food particles can stick to the walls of your drainpipes. These substances don’t break down easily and can trap other debris, leading to rot and strong odors. Even if you run water frequently, the gunk can build up in places where it isn’t easily flushed out. It’s advisable to flush your kitchen sink drain with hot water every two weeks to get rid of any debris accumulating in the drainpipes.
Bacterial Growth
When organic matter collects inside your drain, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. As the bacteria break down this material, they release foul-smelling gases. This is especially common in garbage disposals that haven’t been cleaned regularly. If you use your garbage disposal frequently, ensure you clean the appliance at least once every two weeks.
Venting Issues
Your plumbing system uses vents to safely channel sewer gases out of your home. If those vents are blocked or improperly installed, those gases can get trapped in the system and eventually escape through your drains, especially when water is draining from another area of your home. If you’ve noticed signs of blocked plumbing vents in your home, reach out to a professional plumbing repair service for help.
Sewer Line Problems
In more serious cases, a cracked or damaged sewer line could be allowing sewer gases to enter your home through the plumbing system. If the smell is persistent, particularly in more than one drain, and is accompanied by slow drainage or gurgling sounds, it could be a sign of a bigger issue that requires professional help. Get in touch with the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for sewer repair if your sewer system is in disrepair.
Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to Perform an Inspection
If you’ve tried DIY techniques with no success, you need to enlist the help of a local plumber. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the name you can rely on when you need an expert to find out the source of sewer smells in your home. We can help you with drain cleaning, garbage disposal repair, plumbing vent repair, P-trap repair, sewer repair, and more. If you’re dealing with unpleasant odors in your home, we are the skilled plumbers to call for professional help.
