Fixing Bad Odor from Dry Traps in Plumbing Drains

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Do you have an unused drain that is emitting a horrible stench? Most drains have a trap that fills with water and prevents sewer gases from escaping up the drains and back into your home.  Those drains that are not often used such as basement floor drains or extra bathrooms may dry out from non-use and have a dry trap. This means those nasty sewer gases can come up through the drain and into your home. If you are experiencing a smelly drain in your home, you might be able to fix the issue by simply adding moisture and sealing your drain trap.

If you have a drain that is emitting odor and has not been used in some time, simply run water down the drain for a few minutes. This will flush out any debris and refill the drain trap with water. However, if left unused, the water will once again evaporate and you will have the same issue. Try adding a small amount of vegetable oil, just a few tablespoons, after the water has finished draining. This oil will float on the top of the drain trap water and help prolong the drain from becoming dry by slowing evaporation.

However, not all bad odors are due to a dry trap. There may be something more serious happening in your sewer pipes. If you try eliminating the dry trap and there is still a bad odor, it is time to call a plumber. You may have a clog forming in your sewer pipes that is causing the smell. Your local plumber can investigate the issue using digital video cameras or other methods and offer a solution.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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