Most people don’t think about plumbers until they have a problem. And by then, it’s usually too late! A smelly drain is one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners experience, usually caused by bad bacteria buildup. Luckily, a plumber can fix this problem fairly easily. This blog post will discuss what causes a smelly drain and how a plumber can fix it.
Why Is Your Drain Smelling Bad?
There are a few different reasons your drain might start to smell bad. They include:
Clogged Drain
When you have a smelly drain, you should check to see if it’s clogged. As any homeowner knows, a clogged drain can be a real headache. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also cause a foul odor to permeate your home. A clogged drain is often the result of built-up grease, hair, and other debris. Over time, this debris can create a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely through the drain. As a result, water can become stagnant and produce an unpleasant smell. If you notice that your drain is clogged and emitting a bad odor, it’s important to take action immediately. Otherwise, you risk causing serious damage to your plumbing.
Mold or Mildew
If your drain smells bad, it could be due to mold or mildew. These are both types of fungi that can grow in damp areas. Drains often provide the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, as they are dark and moist. If you notice a musty smell coming from your drain, it is likely due to mold or mildew. You may also see slimy black or green patches on the walls of your drain.
While mold and mildew are not dangerous to humans, they can cause respiratory problems. In addition, they can damage your plumbing and lead to costly repairs. If you suspect mold or mildew is growing in your drain, it is important to contact a plumber to address the problem. You should also hire a professional drain cleaning service regularly to prevent mold and mildew from growing in your drain.
Bacteria
One of the most common causes of a smelly drain is bacteria. Bacteria are microscopic organisms that are present in all environments, including drains. While some bacteria are beneficial, others can cause serious health problems. The bad bacteria that often cause smelly drains are known as sewage-associated bacteria. These bacteria thrive in environments rich in organic matter, such as sewage.
When they build up in drains, they can cause a foul odor. In addition, they can lead to serious health problems if inhaled or ingested. If you have a smelly drain and think bacteria are to blame, you should call a plumbing professional immediately. They will be able to take steps to remove the bacteria and prevent them from coming back.
Sewer Gas
Another common cause of a smelly drain is sewer gas. Sewer gas is a mixture of different gases produced by decaying organic matter. When this gas escapes from the sewer, it can enter your home through the drains. When you have sewer gases escaping from your drains, you may have a major flaw in your plumbing system. The flaw may not only be risking your plumbing system but also the health of your family. Therefore, you must immediately call a plumber in Bloomington, IL, if you notice a sewer gas smell coming from your drain.
How Can a Plumbing Professional Fix a Smelly Drain?
If you have a smelly drain, the best thing to do is call a professional. They will be able to diagnose the problem and take steps to fix it. So, how will they fix your smelly drain?
Identifying the Cause of the Smell
The first step a plumber will take is to identify the cause of the smell. They will inspect your drains and look for any signs of clogs, mold, mildew, or bacteria. Once they have identified the cause of the smell, they can take steps to fix it.
Cleaning Your Drain
The plumber will likely clean your drain if the issue causing the smelly drains can’t be pinpointed. This involves using a powerful cleaning solution to remove any buildup that may be causing the smell. They can use several means to clean your drain, including a plunger, a snake, a chemical cleaner, or hydro jetting. Cleaning the drains will usually fix the problem and eliminate the bad odor.
Fixing Your Plumbing
If cleaning your drain doesn’t work, there is likely a bigger issue in your plumbing system. The plumber will then take steps to repair your drain. For example, if there is a crack in your sewer line, they will repair it. If your sewer line is blocked, they will clear the blockage. Once the plumber has fixed the problem with your plumbing, the odor should go away.
Don’t hesitate to call a professional if you have a smelly drain. They will be able to identify the cause of the smell and take steps to fix it. While it can be tempting to use a home remedy to fix the problem, it is best to leave it to the professionals.
Home remedies can often worsen the problem and lead to more costly repairs. For example, you can use chemicals that will corrode your pipes, leading to costly replacement of the drainage system. Therefore, it is always best to call a professional in Bloomington, IL, when you have a smelly drain. They will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Do You Have a Smelly Drain? Let Us Help You
Smelly drains can be frustrating and embarrassing. If you have a smelly drain in your Bloomington, IL home, don’t hesitate to call our experienced plumbing professionals at Covenant Plumbing. We will be able to identify the cause of the smell and take steps to fix it. We understand how important it is to have a functional and odor-free plumbing system. Therefore, we will work quickly and efficiently to get your drains smelling fresh again. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
