my drain trap smells bad

Plumbing

The answer to 'my drain trap smells bad' is that a smelly drain trap is usually caused by a dry trap or a clogged drain. The drain trap is the curved pipe underneath your sink or floor drain that holds a small amount of water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. If this water evaporates or the trap becomes clogged with debris, it can allow unpleasant odors to come up through the drain.

Common symptoms of a smelly drain trap include a persistent sewage-like odor coming from the drain, sometimes accompanied by a gurgling sound. To fix the issue, you can try pouring a cup of water down the drain to re-fill the trap, or use a plunger or drain snake to clear any clogs. However, if the problem persists, you may need to call a professional plumber to inspect and repair the drain system.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Refill the drain trap

    If the drain trap is dry, simply pour a cup of water down the drain to refill the trap and prevent sewer gases from entering your home.

  2. 2

    Use a plunger or drain snake

    If the drain trap is clogged, use a plunger or drain snake to try to clear the blockage. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the pipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my drain trap is dry?

If you notice a persistent sewage-like odor coming from the drain, that's a sign the drain trap has dried out and needs to be refilled with water.

How often should I check my drain trap?

It's a good idea to check your drain traps periodically, especially during dry seasons when evaporation is more likely. You can simply pour a cup of water down the drain to refill the trap.

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