How to Handle Smelly Drains and Plumbing

Rotten smelling drains can be an embarrassment. Most people don’t understand why plumbing can sometimes stink and don’t know what to do when it does.

Many people will attempt to fix the problem themselves with store-bought cleaners and chemicals. Unfortunately, this only will make the problem worse and leave you will rotten-smelling cleaners.

We’re going to discuss what causes this rotten smell, how to prevent it, and what you can do when it does happen. Keep reading for more information on drain cleaning!

Is Bacteria Growing in Your Sink?

Don’t fire your maid just yet! A smelly sink or shower drain doesn’t necessarily mean your bathroom is not being cleaned.
Although the smell doesn’t mean your bathroom is ‘dirty,’ it could mean that the pipes in your sink or shower are contaminated!

Contaminated sinks and showers can be caused by clogs that have yet to be removed. Clogs basically impede the flow of water, allowing for bacteria to grow and spread freely. Bacteria growing and spreading is gross, but did you know that salmonella and E. Coli can be included in this growth?

Both of these types of bacteria are associated with foodborne illness with symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. As mentioned, you can pour cleaners and solutions like bleach down your drains, but this won’t always get rid of the problem. Bacteria can grow resistant to these chemicals over time, and harsh solvents can damage your pipes.

Could it Be Sulfur?

Sulfur on your pipes is a sure sign of the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. This gas is generally associated with sewage and rotten eggs.

Sulfur on your pipes is not necessarily harmful, but the smell is noticeable and unpleasant. The sulfurous smell can also be rooted in the sewage pipes, ground, or simply build up in your plumbing.

If you do have sulfur on your pipes and are continually smelling it, you could be putting yourself at risk. These fumes can be toxic if inhaled persistently over an extended period.

Regardless if this problem comes and goes, or is always there, it will need to be addressed by a licensed plumber. It’s likely the recommendation will be a professional drain cleaning.

Contact Hall’s Plumbing Today!

The best thing to do to prevent smelly pipes and plumbing is acting early. Prevention includes not pouring greasy substances, cement, or grout into the drain, running hot water after every use, and installing hair catchers to prevent clogs.

Stopping clogs will go a long way in preventing stagnant water that allows bacteria to grow. If you are already experiencing these problems, it is time to call a professional!

Hall’s Plumbing is the company for the job. We charge by the job, not the hour which ensures the work is always done correctly and to your satisfaction. Call Hall’s Plumbing today to schedule your drain cleaning!