The unpleasant smell emanating from the drain is not only unpleasant, but it can also indicate more serious problems. The source of the sewer smell can be a blockage, dried odour trap or even sewage leakage. If we don't treat the phenomenon in time, it doesn't just worsen our comfort, but can also pose health risks. Below are the most common causes and effective solutions in detail.

Possible causes of sewer odor

1. Clogging in the drain

The accumulated in the drains Impurities, for example, hairs, fat deposits, Food scraps and soap residues over time blockage Cause. If the water drains slowly, or we hear a gurgling sound from the drain, It can be a warning sign.

Solution:

• Try to unclog at home with hot water and natural cleaning products, for example, by using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
• If the problem is stubborn, then you can also use drain cleaning chemicals, but their regular use is not recommended, because it can damage the pipes.
• As a mechanical cleaning, it is worth using a drain pump or a ferret.
• In more severe cases, the help of a professional may be needed, who removes the blockage with professional tools.

2. Dried odour trap (siphon)

The stink trap, also known as siphon, a bent pipe section filled with water, which prevents, so that unpleasant odors from the sewer return to the apartment. If a drain is rarely used, for example, a guest room sink or floor drain, then the water can evaporate from it, and gives free rein to sewer odors.

Solution:

• If a drain is rarely used, Pour in a glass of water from time to time, to fill the odour trap.
• If we travel for a longer period of time, It is worth pouring a few drops of cooking oil or glycerin down the drain, because they slow down the evaporation of water.
• Check the siphon, and if it is cracked or damaged, replace it with a new one.

3. Bacteria and deposits on the inner wall of the drain

Over time, biofilm can form inside the drains, which consists of bacteria and organic matter. These overgrown microorganisms can produce unpleasant odors.

Solution:

• Clean the drain regularly with hot water and natural remedies, for example, with vinegar and baking soda.
• You can also use drain cleaning tablets or liquids with a disinfectant effect.
• If the smell persists, It is worth disassembling and cleaning the siphon.

Health risks of sewage leaks

If the sewer smell persists, It can even be caused by a sewage leak. This does not only cause a stench, but also carries serious health risks:

• Bacteria and molds in wastewater can cause respiratory diseases, can cause allergies and other infections.
• A humid environment is an ideal breeding ground for pests, for example, for cockroaches or rats, which pose an additional risk of infection.
• In the long run, sewage leaks can also damage the structure of the building, which can result in significant repair costs.

If in addition to the unpleasant smell, wet stains, you experience a musty smell or mold on the walls or floor, may indicate a leak, and requires immediate intervention.

Sewer leak detection with the help of a professional

Hidden sewer leaks in the building can cause serious damage, That's why it's worth turning to a professional. A Professional unclogging and plumbers can accurately identify the location of a leak with modern tools, without that, unnecessary demolition work would have to be carried out.

Leak detection methods:

• Camera tube inspection: A tiny one, a pipe inspection device equipped with a high-resolution camera is introduced into the drain system, which broadcasts a live image of the pipe status. This will help you find the fractures, cracks and blockages.
• Pressure test: Air or water is supplied to the system, to detect, Where the fluid leaves, and thus determine the exact location of the leak.
• Thermal camera inspection: Infrared technology allows you to map the temperature differences behind the pipes, This way, the specialist can easily find problem areas.

Summation

If you smell an unpleasant smell from the drain, Don't delay solving the problem! Blockages, bacteria and dried odour traps can be treated with easy maintenance, But sewage leaks can cause more serious problems.