ARTICLES

SINK SMELLS: WHAT THEY MEAN AND HOW TO CLEAN THEM

AUG 17, 2016

When it comes to plumbing, there are many potential problems that can arise. One of the main ways that these problems come to our attention is through smell. Whether it is the kitchen or bathroom sink, there are several odors that can mean different things. Being able to identify the different sink smells and take appropriate action is important so that you can kick those unwanted fragrances to the curb. We have a list of what the different smells in your home might mean, as well as tips for getting rid of them.

THE MOST COMMON SINK SMELLS

1. ROTTING FOOD

Probably the most common odor that will arise during your time as a homeowner is the fragrance of rotting food. While using your garbage disposal correctly will certainly help with the frequency of this smell, it is bound to make an appearance sometime. Food particles and bacteria simply accumulate over time, and there is nothing that you can really do to stop it completely. However, there are some ways to eliminate the smell that are fairly simple. One is to take lemons wedges and drop them down the drain while the disposal is running. The citrus scent usually gets rid of the smell. Another thing to routinely do is to put ice cubes through the disposal because it can both rid the smell and sharpen the blades.

2. MUSTINESS

Have the scent of mold lingering around any sinks lately? The cause is likely rooted in a leak somewhere, as damp and dark conditions can be a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. You can check for this yourself by simply looking around under the cabinets for any water or residue that might have come from a crack somewhere. It is also important to check around dishwashers, as wetness around the floor can be a sign of an internal plumbing problem. When something like this arises, make sure to shut off your water supply until you can callplumbing professionals to determine the cause and provide a solution.

3. SULFUR

Nobody likes the smell of rotten eggs, but this can be a common problem in the bathrooms of homes. This can often occur in a guest bathroom, because it is used less often, or just as a result of a plumbing problem. Drains are built with traps that hold water, which is used to vent out the gas and keep your home from smelling. But if they are not commonly used, or the water evaporates, then the gas will find it’s way in. While this is not a reason to evacuate your home immediately, it is important to call a plumber if you suspect a gas leak, as it can be hazardous to your health when breathed in.

 

4. BACTERIA FROM A CLOGGED DRAIN

While a lot of sink smells either come from food or sewer problems, there can be times when the sinks in our drain can malfunction and cause a foul odor. If you notice a sink has not been draining properly or as quickly as it used to, that can be a tell-tale sign of a clog that is causing an unpleasant smell. You can try several drain cleaners from your local store to see if that solves the problem, but sometimes, the problem is rooted deeper. It may require that the stopper is removed from the sink itself, allowing more access to the pipes. This can be a complicated task, as there are many small parts that can get lost, so it’s wise to consult a professional before attempting.

 

GET RID OF UNWANTED ODORS WITH HELP FROM DONLEY

Now that you know what the most common sink smells are and why they occur, it is important to make sure you get rid of them so you can live in a fragrance-free home. By consulting with professionals in the plumbing field, you can guarantee that the problems will be gone as well as the smells. Donley Service Center is always ready to help at a moment’s notice, offering round the clock service so that you can call the minute a problem arises.Contact us today for help making your home a healthier and nicer smelling place.