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How to Remove Sewer Smell from Bathroom

How Do You Get Rid of a Smelly Bathroom Drain?

Have you ever gone into the bathroom and been met with an unpleasant smell from the drain? It doesn’t have to be this way!

It’s as unmistakable as it is unwelcome: a sewer smell in your bathroom emanating from the plumbing. This is a problem that you want to get rid of right away for obvious reasons, but it’s worth being armed with all the necessary information you might need when it comes to these smells inside your home that we’re going to cover for you right now.

  • The vapors from hydrogen sulfide, one of the gasses associated with this smell, can be detrimental to your health. Low levels can cause irritation to the mouth, nose, throat, lungs, and eyes. Longer or higher exposure can result in headaches, nausea, drowsiness, shortness of breath, or even heart palpitations.
  • If there is a sewage leak somewhere in the house, it can cause damage that can be very expensive to repair.
    There are some DIY approaches to getting rid of sewer smell. Still, in many cases, it’s better to call a professional plumbing service like Four Seasons Plumbing, one of the leading plumbers in Asheville, NC, and the surrounding region.

Using the information in this article, you can get rid of that smelly bathroom drain quickly and easily. In this blog post, we will discuss what causes a smelly drain, and how to clean it, and prevent it from happening again. We will also provide details on when it is time to call a professional plumber for emergency drain repair near FletcherBlack Mountain, and Asheville, North Carolina. Let’s get started and learn howFour Seasons Plumbing can help with your plumbing needs!

What Causes Smelly Drains

Foul smells coming from your drains can be more than just a nuisance- they can indicate serious problems that need to be addressed quickly. In most cases, smelly drains are caused by a build-up of sewage, bacteria, mold, or mildew. If you notice any of these problems, it is vital to take action immediately.

One way to prevent issues is to have a plumber install a drain trap. This device helps to catch debris and prevent it from entering the drain. Another way to reduce odor is to clean up any messes that are made during installation.

These preventive measures allow you to keep your drains smelling fresh and free of any potential problems.

four seasons plumbing van

DIY Tips for Cleaning Smelly Drains

If the problem appears to be minor, there are a couple of things you can try on your own:

  • If the bad smell comes from a drain in a bathroom that doesn’t get much use, such as a guest bathroom, there’s a good chance the water in the drain traps mentioned in the previous section has dried up. This is a very easy fix if that’s the problem. All you have to do is run water through the pipes. Once water is back in the drain trap, the drain trap should once again block odors from escaping into your house.
  • When the seal in the wax ring or caulking around your toilet is broken or missing, water, urine, and other waste can find their way into crevices. Once that happens, bacteria and mold can begin to grow, and they can produce those rotten-egg odors you’re smelling. Addressing this is pretty simple, too. After locating the spot(s) where the seal has broken, you can apply a bead of caulk to reseal them. In almost no time at all, the foul odors will be gone, and your bathroom will be back to smelling clean and fresh.
  • In some cases, a smelly drain might just be a telltale sign that you need to clean your drains. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can build up in your pipes and create clogs. This not only prevents water from flowing freely through your drains but also provides a breeding ground for bacteria. If you think your drains just need a good cleaning, there are a few simple things you can do at home to get rid of the odor.
  • Start by pouring boiling water down your drains to melt away any grease or soap scum that might be causing clogs. You can also use a plunger to dislodge any debris that might be trapped in your pipes. If these DIY methods don’t seem to be doing the trick, it might be time to call in a professional plumber to take a look at your situation.

How Baking Soda Can Clean Drains

Baking soda is one of the best home remedies for cleaning drains because it helps break down buildup and remove odors naturally.

To clean out your smelly bathroom drain, start by using baking soda and water as directed on the container’s label. You may also want to use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide in combination with baking soda if necessary.

If possible, try pouring boiling water down the drain to help clear away any debris that might be causing blockages. After cleaning the drains, make sure to check them regularly for any signs of a clog or other plumbing issues.

3 Ways to Prevent Smelly Drains

Bad-smelling drains are one of the most common and annoying household problems. They can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from food particles and grease buildup to hair and soap scum. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to prevent smelly drains.

One of the best ways is to use strainers on all your sinks and tubs. This will help to catch hair and debris before it goes down the drain, which will keep your pipes from clogging.

Additionally, regularly cleaning your sinks and tubs with natural cleaners like baking soda or vinegar will help to remove any build-up that could cause odors.

Finally, running hot water through your pipes periodically will flush out any residue that could lead to bad smells over time.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your drains smelling fresh and clean all year round!

Professional Services for Eliminating Sewer Smells

If you’ve tried the above approaches and they didn’t work, or if you know neither situation calling for them is the issue, you have a bigger problem with your plumbing. Now it’s time to call an expert; this isn’t something you should continue to deal with on your own. If you do, you might worsen the problem, and you could expose yourself to harmful toxins or injure yourself.

Here are some of the things a pro can do:

  • As a first step, they will probably use a specialized camera to inspect your pipes and return photographic evidence of what’s causing the problem.
  • Sometimes, the plumber will next clear the sewer pipes by hydro jetting them. By removing sewage backups and any other backups, the plumber can then inspect the system to see if additional repairs or replacements are going to be needed.
  • A plumber can also repair the sewer lines if damage to them is causing the problem. This will take care of the issue, but it might not be a permanent fix. For example, if tree roots damaged your pipes, they could still grow back into the repaired pipes or into other pipes in your system.
  • For a long-term fix, the best option might be sewer replacement. One approach involves digging and excavating before placing new lines in different locations or with more durable materials. This can be a big, expensive job since it requires tearing up portions of a yard and/or sidewalks, but it will get the job done.
  • Another approach to replacement some plumbers offer is trenchless sewer repair and replacement. As the name suggests, this is a no-dig method using specialized equipment and practices.

Have a Pro Take Care of Your Sewer Smell

When you need a plumbing repair, it’s better to skip the hassle and the mess and have a professional take care of the job. A pro will know how to find the problem and what to do about it, and they’ll have the right tools and training for the job.

Four Seasons Plumbing is a fully certified and insured plumbing service with experienced, trained plumbers who will get things back to normal for you and your family as soon as possible. We also realize that plumbing issues can come up at the most inconvenient of times, so if you’re needing an emergency plumber in Fletcher, NC, or elsewhere in the Asheville region, we’ve got you covered.

Common Signs Your Drains Need to be Unclogged

If you’ve noticed your water draining slowly, smelly bathroom drains, or sewage backups, it’s time to call a professional. You could have a severe clog in your main line.

If left untreated, a clog will only get worse and can cause expensive damage to your home. In addition to causing water backup, a clog in your main line can also cause smelly bathroom drains.

When decomposing waste gets trapped in your drains and has no way to get out, you’ll notice a smell coming from your drains. If you’re dealing with odd smells or water backup, don’t wait to call a professional. Clearing a clog is best left to the experts to avoid any further damage to your home.

Every homeowner knows the importance of maintaining various parts of their home. But often, the hidden intricacies like sewer lines get overlooked. Understanding the maintenance of these crucial parts can be as easy as your ABCs! Though this guide has been crafted with Asheville, NC residents in mind, the principles of sewer maintenance resonate universally.

A is for Assessment

Importance of Regular Inspections

Routine checks and balances in our lives keep us organized and stress-free. Similarly, regular inspections of sewer lines are paramount for a hassle-free living experience. You might be wondering, “Why is there a need for frequent inspections?” It’s simple. By regularly assessing the health and function of our sewer lines, we can preemptively address issues, saving both time and money. It’s the old adage – “A stitch in time saves nine.”

Benefits of Professional Assessments

While some prefer the DIY route for various home maintenance tasks, when it comes to sewer maintenance, trusting the professionals is your best bet. Professional assessments provide a comprehensive insight into the current state of your sewer lines, thanks to the experience and expertise of trained technicians. They know just what to look for and how to keep sewer lines clean effectively and efficiently.

B is for Blockage

Common Causes

Sewer line blockages are every homeowner’s nightmare. And more often than not, these blockages are due to some common culprits. Accumulated hair, hardened grease, and invasive tree roots are usually the prime suspects. Each of these, when unchecked, can lead to a blocked sewer line that disrupts the regular flow of your daily life.

Symptoms of a Blocked Sewer Line

Awareness is half the battle won. Recognizing the signs of a blocked sewer line can save you from larger issues down the line. These symptoms might range from slow-draining sinks and bathtubs to unexpected backups in toilets. If there’s a persistent bad odor wafting from your drains, it’s time to call in the experts.

Enlisting Professionals for Solutions

Attempting to address blockages on your own might sound tempting, but it’s worth noting that some blockages require tools and expertise only professionals possess. With sewer maintenance, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Experts not only understand how to keep sewer lines clean but also ensure that the solutions provided are long lasting.

C is for Cleanup

The Importance of Cleaning

Now, you might be wondering, “I’ve got no blockages, so I’m in the clear, right?” Not quite. Regular cleaning is key. Just as you wouldn’t wait for your car to break down before changing its oil, you shouldn’t wait for a blockage to consider sewer maintenance. Keeping sewer lines clean can significantly extend their lifespan and promote better hygiene throughout your home.

Advantages of Professional Cleaning

While some might advocate for various DIY methods of cleaning sewer lines, seeking professional help offers numerous advantages. Professionals possess both the tools and knowledge to clean your sewer lines thoroughly, ensuring the job is done right the first time. By availing of their services, you get peace of mind and confidence that the task has been executed to perfection.

The Added Value of Professional Services

Enlisting the help of experts like Four Seasons Plumbing offers a myriad of benefits. The obvious advantage is the superior quality of service that comes from years of experience and training. Beyond this, professional services can also extend the life of your equipment, ensuring that your home runs efficiently for years to come.

Another essential consideration is the safety and peace of mind that come with hiring a professional. Handling sewer maintenance on one’s own can often be messy, and without the proper tools and knowledge, even risky. Professionals ensure that the job is not only done right but is also done safely.

Conclusion

In the vast realm of homeownership, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with various chores and maintenance tasks. However, understanding the basics of sewer maintenance can ease one significant burden. With the right professional help and regular check-ups, keeping those sewer lines clean and efficient becomes a breeze.

Four Seasons Plumbing: Sewer Line Service

So, as you enjoy the comforts of your Asheville, NC home, remember to give those hidden sewer lines a thought. If you ever find yourself needing expert guidance or services, don’t hesitate to reach out to Four Seasons Plumbing – your trusted partner in plumbing care. Ensure peace of mind and seamless function by letting us assist you. Warm wishes for a blockage-free life from all of us at Four Seasons Emergency Plumbing!

Now that you understand the ABCs of keeping your sewer lines in top shape, why not take the next step? Schedule an appointment with Four Seasons Plumbing for comprehensive sewer maintenance or to learn more about how to keep sewer lines clean. Our team of trained professionals is always ready to assist and guide you every step of the way.

Max Rose - Owner of Four Seasons Plumbing

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Max Rose

Max Rose is the owner of Four Seasons Plumbing, a plumbing company in Asheville, North Carolina.