Common Causes of Drain Odors
If a drain smell is potent in the kitchen or main bathroom, the culprit may be a clog.
Drain smells can seem more of a nuisance than an indication of a severe drain concern. However, if odors persist despite cleaning efforts, an expert should examine the pipes. Using chemicals to mask the smells is a temporary fix that does not resolve the root issue and may cause it to worsen. Consider the various drain odors homeowners may experience and their possible causes.
Drain clogs
If a drain smell is potent in the kitchen or main bathroom, the culprit may be a clog. This could be good news, as sewer blockages are common and do not necessarily indicate significant repairs. If there is a small clog from the property to the outside waste system, the discharge lines may back up. This clog could worsen until the line is blocked off or until drainage is drastically slowed. A specialist can be called to snake out the water line until all the debris causing the clog is removed. However, the sewer discharge pipe may be backed up by a tree or bush root. In this case, the pipe likely needs to be replaced and the roots removed.
Pipe leaks
Smelling gas from the kitchen or bathtub drain is cause for worry, but a plumbing expert can help determine the issue. Often, these odors are caused by the chemical drain cleaning solutions used to de-clog, cleanse, and cover up smells in drains. Over time, these chemicals can wear away at the pipes and eventually cause leaks, sometimes where sewer gas is present. Sewer gas can be a severe health concern, as it has adverse side effects. Be sure to contact a professional when a gas smell is detected.
If sewer gas is not the culprit, the smell emitted from a leaking pipe could be due to a build-up of organic waste or an older pipe. In each of these instances, the piping must be replaced. If a home has copper pipes, consider replacing them with PVC pipes, as they can help prevent odors, last longer, and perform better.
Odors emerging from the plumbing must be addressed promptly. If left untreated, these issues can worsen and be more difficult to resolve later. At best, they can be a simple irritation, but often, they indicate a more severe issue that a plumbing expert must address. For the health of the family and home, call for professional help as soon as possible.
If you need honest and experienced professional plumbing services for residential and afford commercial plumbing needs in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Enterprise give us a call at 702-766-3320.
